Bangladesh’s ongoing gas and electricity shortages are significantly disrupting the knitwear export sector, with 87% of surveyed exporters reporting shipment delays and nearly 60% forced to offer discounts to foreign buyers, according to a Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) survey.
The survey, conducted among 134 export-oriented factories between 21 July and 7 September 2026, found that 75% were affected by gas shortages and 90% by power disruptions. Gas pressure reportedly fell by 78% from normal levels, while production at affected factories declined by around one-third to one-half.
About 55% of respondents reported cancelled or reduced export orders, while 92% incurred additional costs for alternative fuel. More than three-quarters also reported partial production shutdowns.
BKMEA said the prolonged energy crisis is increasing the risk of losing foreign buyers’ confidence, with 89% of respondents expressing concern over this issue. The association called for policy support to help industries overcome the temporary energy shortages.
