Bangladesh garment exports declined to $35.31 billion during the July–May period of FY2025-26, reflecting continued pressure on the country’s largest export sector amid cautious global buying trends and economic uncertainty in key markets.
According to data released by Bangladesh’s Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), garment exports fell by 3.4% year-on-year during the first eleven months of the fiscal year. Knitwear exports dropped to $18.78 billion, while woven garment shipments declined to $16.53 billion.
The slowdown in apparel exports comes as international retailers continue to place orders cautiously amid weak consumer demand, inflationary pressures, and ongoing global economic uncertainties. Industry stakeholders have pointed to subdued demand in major export destinations as a key factor behind the decline.
In May alone, Bangladesh garment exports fell by more than 8% year-on-year to $3.59 billion, contributing to a broader decline in the country’s overall export earnings. Total merchandise exports during July–May stood at $43.8 billion, down approximately 2.6% from the same period a year earlier.
Despite the challenges, the RMG sector continues to account for more than 80% of Bangladesh’s export earnings, underscoring its critical role in the national economy. However, economists and industry leaders have emphasized the need for market diversification, higher-value apparel production, and improved competitiveness as Bangladesh prepares for post-LDC trade realities.
Meanwhile, sectors such as engineering products, pharmaceuticals, and value-added jute products have shown positive growth, although their gains have not been sufficient to offset the weakness in garment exports.
With the fiscal year nearing its end, industry observers will be closely watching whether stronger demand from key markets and supportive policy measures can help Bangladesh’s apparel sector regain momentum in the coming months.
Source: Fibre 2 Fashion
(Rewritten & adapted by Indian-Apparel.com News Desk)
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