The nationalist leader, who is seen trailing behind the opposition in polls ahead of the April election, had promised an economic "flying start" for 2025, with the government originally forecasting a 3.4 percent growth. But the export-oriented central European country of 9.5 million has been severely impacted by declining external demand amid global trade disruptions. But she predicted a return to stronger growth this year "thanks to a revival in external demand and an improving European economy". In November, industrial production declined to a level not seen since the height of the Covid-19 pandemic five years ago. Economy Minister Marton Nagy blamed the tepid growth on the fallout from the war in Ukraine, as well as "weak EU competitiveness, and weak external demand".

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha January 30, 2026 12:12 UTC