Bangladesh’s readymade garment sector posted steady growth in the first four months of FY26 (July–October), earning $12.99 billion, up 1.40% year-on-year, despite global market volatility, rising production costs and competition from rival exporters.
The European Union remained the largest export destination, importing $6.26 billion worth of Bangladeshi apparel—48.17% of total exports—showing marginal but stable growth of 0.46% amid recessionary pressures and declining consumer demand.
The United States, Bangladesh’s second-largest market, showed stronger momentum, with exports rising 5.14% to $2.59 billion, backed by renewed orders in fast-fashion and basic wear categories.
Traditional markets such as the UK and Canada also recorded positive growth, while exports to emerging markets—including Australia, Japan, China, Russia, and South America—fell 2.69%, reflecting global recession, currency instability, and geopolitical constraints.
Woven garments outperformed knitwear, with 2.66% growth compared to 0.42%, signalling rising demand in Europe and North America.
Industry experts view the overall growth as a “cautious but hopeful” trend, stressing the need for greater market diversification, higher-value products, and stronger buyer relationships to remain competitive against rapidly advancing rivals like Vietnam, India, and Cambodia.
