Bangladesh’s apparel sector has experienced significant growth in its top 10 export markets during the current fiscal year (July 2024 to May 2025), according to the latest data from the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB). The country’s apparel exports to these key destinations, which include the US, Germany, the UK, Spain, France, the Netherlands, Poland, Italy, Canada, and Japan, have increased across the board, with each market importing more than US $ 1 billion worth of garments.
In total, apparel exports to these ten markets have reached US $ 28.1 billion, marking a 10.5% rise compared to the same period last year. Notably, about 77% of Bangladesh’s total apparel exports are concentrated in these major markets.
The US remains Bangladesh’s largest export destination, with shipments valued at US $ 7.09 billion in the first 11 months of the fiscal year, reflecting a 17% increase from the previous year. However, there are concerns over future trade prospects in the US, as the expiration of President Donald Trump’s suspension of reciprocal tariffs in July could lead to additional tariffs if negotiations do not succeed.
Germany, the second-largest market, received apparel exports worth US $ 4.57 billion during the same period, a 10.39% increase year-on-year. The UK also saw growth, with exports totaling US $ 4.04 billion-up 4% from the previous year. France, an important EU market, imported US $ 2.1 billion worth of garments, an 8.65 per cent rise, although last year’s exports declined by 14 per cent.
Other top markets also recorded notable gains: the Netherlands saw a 22.15 per cent increase to US $ 1.93 billion, Poland rose by 10.64 per cent to US $ 1.56 billion, Italy’s exports grew by 6.77% to US $ 1.42 billion, Canada increased by 14.29 per cent to US $ 1.20 billion, and Japan’s imports rose by 10.89% to US $ 1.12 billion.
Despite these positive trends, industry exporters caution that maintaining this growth may prove challenging amid ongoing global and domestic hurdles. Potential issues include renewed tensions in the Middle East, gas and electricity shortages within Bangladesh, banking sector instability, and political uncertainties, factors that could impede future export performance.
Overall, the outlook remains cautiously optimistic, with the apparel sector demonstrating resilience amid a complex global landscape.
