The Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) has released the latest country-wise export data for Bangladesh from July to May 2024-25, highlighting a positive trend in the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) sector. RMG exports reached US$36.56 billion, marking a notable 10.20% increase.
Notably, the European Union emerged as a pivotal market, constituting 49.91% of total RMG exports, valued at US$18.25 billion. The United States followed with exports worth US$7.03 billion (19.23%), while Canada and the UK contributed US$1.20 billion and US$4.04 billion, respectively.
Year-over-year growth in RMG exports showcased significant upticks, with the EU, USA, and Canada registering growth rates of 10.46%, 15.97%, and 14.14%, respectively. Meanwhile, the UK observed a more modest growth of 3.96%. Within the EU, Germany led as the largest market for RMG, with exports amounting to US$4.58 billion, trailed by Spain at US$3.16 billion and France at US$2.00 billion.
Furthermore, Bangladesh’s RMG exports witnessed a 6.79% increase in non-traditional markets, totaling US$6.04 billion, securing a 16.53% market share. Noteworthy growth was observed in markets like India (17.35%), Turkey (31.75%), and Japan (10.32%), while exports to Russia, Korea, the UAE, and Malaysia experienced declines.
In the textile industry, the knitwear sector demonstrated a remarkable growth of 10.98%, complemented by a 9.30% increase in the woven sector. However, escalating conflicts such as the Iran-Israel tension pose new challenges to competitiveness and future expansion. To navigate these dynamics effectively, maintaining competitiveness, diversifying exports, and tapping into non-traditional markets are vital in the present scenario.
Mohiuddin Rubel
Additional Managing Director, Denim Expert Ltd.
Managing Director, Bangladesh Apparel Exchange
Former Director, Brand BGMEA
