Dhaka, March 5 -- Inflationary pressure in Bangladesh remained elevated at the start of 2026 as rising prices of fish, fruits and vegetables continued to push up food costs, even though rice prices showed signs of easing, according to the latest report of the General Economics Division (GED).

Inflation rose slightly to 8.58 percent in January 2026, up from 8.49 percent in December 2025, reflecting persistent pressure from food prices, the GED said in its Economic Update and Outlook for February 2026.

Food inflation increased to 8.29 percent in January, compared with 7.71 percent in December, while non-food inflation declined to 8.81 percent from 9.13 percent during the same period.

The report said food remained the largest contributor ...