Bangladesh Bank to Release New Banknotes Before Eid

Bangladesh Bank is set to introduce newly designed banknotes into circulation ahead of Eid-ul-Azha, according to sources at the central bank.

The redesigned notes feature graffiti commemorating the historic July Uprising, alongside elements that reflect Bangladesh’s rich cultural heritage and traditions. Discussions around the launch of the new currency began on August 5 last year.

Although the notes were printed months ago, their release was delayed by the government to avoid potential controversy. The new notes include an image of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, which reportedly led to the decision not to issue them during Eid-ul-Fitr to prevent political backlash.

As a result, fresh currency has been in short supply, forcing many to rely on worn-out or damaged notes. This has been particularly evident in Dhaka’s Gulistan and Motijheel areas, where informal currency exchanges are thriving due to the unavailability of crisp banknotes. Traders and consumers alike have faced financial losses while exchanging torn notes on the open market.

While the new notes remain stored in bank vaults, financial institutions have been instructed not to distribute them until the official release.

Speaking to media, Bangladesh Bank spokesperson Arif Hossain Khan said it generally takes between one to one-and-a-half years to complete the process of printing new banknotes. However, responding to growing public demand, the central bank has now decided to release the redesigned notes before Eid-ul-Azha.

He added that although nine types of new notes have been printed, not all denominations will be released at once.

According to central bank data, the annual demand for fresh banknotes is around 1.5 billion pieces, while the security printing press can produce only 1.2 billion pieces per year — creating a significant shortfall.