According to data from the Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA), the United States recorded a notable decline in apparel imports during the January–March period of 2026. Total global apparel imports into the US reached $17.73 billion, marking an 11.63% decrease compared to the same period in 2025.
In terms of import volume, measured in SME (square meter equivalent), US apparel imports declined by 12.28%, while the average unit price increased slightly by 0.75%, indicating continued pricing pressure amid reduced sourcing volumes.
Bangladesh’s apparel exports to the US market stood at $2.04 billion during the first quarter of 2026, reflecting an 8.38% decline compared to January–March 2025. For the single month of February 2026, imports from Bangladesh also registered a decrease of 8.08% year-on-year.
Among major sourcing countries, Vietnam emerged as one of the few suppliers posting positive growth, with apparel exports to the US increasing by 2.77%. Cambodia also recorded strong growth of 17.60%, while Indonesia experienced a marginal decline of 0.13%.
On the other hand, China saw a sharp contraction of 52.91% in apparel exports to the US market during the period. India’s exports declined by 27.01%, while Pakistan registered a 5.48% decrease.
When comparing the number of imported pieces, Bangladesh experienced a 5.97% decline, whereas Vietnam posted a 4.87% increase. Cambodia continued its strong performance with an 18.07% rise in imported pieces, while Indonesia increased by 8.57%. China recorded a steep fall of 40.15%, and India’s volume declined by 22.64%. Pakistan also witnessed a slight decrease of 1.09%.
The data further showed a reduction in average unit prices across most sourcing countries. Bangladesh’s unit price per piece declined by 2.56%, while Vietnam’s fell by 2.00%. China recorded the sharpest drop in unit prices at 21.33%, followed by Indonesia at 8.02%. India’s unit price decreased by 5.65%, Pakistan’s by 4.44%, and Cambodia’s by 0.40%.
Industry observers believe the changing sourcing dynamics reflect ongoing market uncertainties, inventory adjustments, and shifting global trade patterns affecting major apparel-exporting countries.
The analysis was shared by Mohiuddin Rubel, former Director of BGMEA and Additional Managing Director of Denim Expert Ltd.
