Bangladesh is aiming to boost its apparel exports to the United Kingdom by leveraging benefits under the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), which offers continued preferential market access.
Recent revisions to DCTS rules of origin—effective from January 2026—allow garment manufacturers to use imported fabrics while still qualifying for duty-free exports to the UK. This flexibility is expected to enhance Bangladesh’s competitiveness, particularly as the country prepares for graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category.
Industry analysts note that apparel dominates Bangladesh’s exports to the UK, accounting for a significant share of bilateral trade. Maintaining duty-free access is therefore critical to sustaining export growth and protecting employment in the sector.
The updated DCTS framework is also expected to reduce potential export losses and ensure continuity in supply chains, enabling Bangladeshi exporters to remain competitive against rival sourcing countries.
With improved market access and simplified compliance requirements, exporters are optimistic about expanding shipments of value-added garments to the UK market, strengthening Bangladesh’s position as a key global apparel supplier.
