Bangladesh economy strengthens in July as manufacturing PMI jumps to 65.4

Bangladesh’s Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) rose to 57.8 in July, signaling broad economic expansion led by a sharp rebound in manufacturing, according to findings presented Monday.

Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) and Policy Exchange Bangladesh unveiled the data at a seminar in Dhaka.

Manufacturing recorded a PMI of 65.4, followed by services at 56.0 and agriculture at 55.2. Construction remained just below the expansion threshold at 49.3.

A reading above 50 indicates expansion, while one below 50 signals contraction.

The index is based on a monthly survey of 400 companies across agriculture, manufacturing, construction, and services.

Speakers said stronger business confidence, an improved external outlook, and expectations of a more supportive post-budget environment helped lift activity. They also called for more frequent economic surveys to improve real-time policymaking and private-sector planning.