Bangladesh experienced a sharp decline in overseas migration in 2024, with the total number of migrant workers falling to 1,009,146—a 27.4% decrease from 1,390,811 in 2023, according to the Ami Probashi Annual Report 2024.
Despite the overall drop, female participation in Bureau of Manpower, Employment, and Training (BMET) registrations nearly doubled, indicating a shift in gender dynamics within the migrant workforce. Female registrations rose from 2.78% in 2023 to 4.79% in 2024, reflecting greater interest and opportunities for women in overseas employment.
Saudi Arabia remained the top destination for Bangladeshi workers, accounting for 62.17% of total migration, with approximately 627,000 migrants heading to the kingdom. The demand for skilled and unskilled labour, particularly in infrastructure development, continues to drive this trend. In contrast, Malaysia, the second-largest destination, saw a drop in migration figures, with only 93,000 Bangladeshi workers arriving in 2024. This decline is attributed to Malaysia’s tightening of foreign labour policies, particularly after May 2024.
Broader socio-economic and political factors, such as the July uprising and resulting economic instability, are believed to have further disrupted migration trends. Many prospective workers may have been deterred by uncertainty over job security and future prospects abroad.
Another key finding from the report is the significant decline in General Training Enrolment, a crucial indicator of workforce preparedness. The number of individuals enrolling in training programmes dropped from 236,270 in 2023 to 112,166 in 2024, highlighting shifting trends in job readiness and demand.
"This rise in female BMET registration is a testament to the growing confidence of Bangladeshi women in pursuing international careers," said Tarique E. Haque, Founder and Managing Director of Ami Probashi. "It reflects an important shift towards inclusivity in the global labour market, and with the right training and support, we can ensure a stronger, more skilled workforce abroad."
In total, 798,276 individuals registered with BMET in 2024, up from 660,088 in 2023. While men continue to dominate the migrant workforce, the increase in female participation signals a broader acceptance of women in skilled and semi-skilled professions overseas.
An increasing number of female workers are enrolling in tech-based training programmes, including computer operations, graphics design, and AutoCAD drafting, shifting away from traditional domestic roles. Notably, over 700 female migrants in 2024 were classified as ‘skilled workers’, indicating a push towards higher-paying, professional positions.
Although overall migration numbers have declined, the rise in BMET registrations and female workforce participation suggests a resilient and evolving labour force in Bangladesh. Experts believe that stronger training initiatives, gender-inclusive policies, and improved foreign labour agreements could help revitalise the migration sector and boost skilled labour exports, ensuring steady remittance inflows in the years ahead.
