Bangladesh faces a significant economic crisis, having lost an estimated $1.2 billion over the past five days due to a nationwide curfew and a comprehensive internet blackout. This crisis originated from protests against job quota policies that reserve 30% of government positions for descendants of individuals who fought in the 1971 war of independence. Student-led demonstrations, calling for the end of these quotas, have resulted in violent clashes with security forces, causing at least 146 deaths. Despite the Supreme Court's decision to reduce the quotas, student leaders continue to demand justice for the victims.

The curfew has severely disrupted the country’s economic activities. Industry leaders have urged the government to lift the curfew and restore normalcy. The garment sector, crucial to the economy and responsible for over 80% of export earnings, incurs losses of about $150 million daily due to factory closures. Similarly, the steel and pharmaceutical industries face significant setbacks, with production and distribution halted by the curfew.

The internet blackout, in effect since July 17, 2024, has compounded the economic damage. E-commerce and Facebook-based businesses are losing $5 million daily, while call centers, which heavily rely on global clients, face $3 million in daily losses due to reputational damage and operational issues. The blackout also disrupts pharmaceutical supply chains and affects commercial banks, potentially resulting in additional millions in interest payments due to delays in transactions. The combined impact of the curfew and internet shutdown has severely impaired Bangladesh’s economic stability and international reputation.