Bangladesh’s export earnings surged to $4.77 billion in July 2025 — marking a nearly 25% year-on-year increase from $3.82 billion in July 2024, according to the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB). This represents the highest monthly export figure since November 2022 and offers a strong start to the new fiscal year.
The impressive growth was driven by strong performances in pharmaceuticals, leather goods, engineering products, and notably, ready-made garments (RMG). Sectors like frozen fish, vegetables, and tobacco also contributed positively, while tea and glassware exports experienced a decline.
This export boost coincided with a 29% year-on-year rise in remittance inflows reported by Bangladesh Bank, reflecting sustained momentum as more than 4 million Bangladeshis have migrated for work over the past four years. Together, the growth in remittances and exports has helped ease pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves.
Following years of external balance deficits, the fiscal year 2024–25 concluded with a surplus, aided by a more stable political environment since August 2024.
Anwar-ul-Alam Chowdhury Parvez, President of the Bangladesh Chamber of Industries (BCI), emphasized that the July export surge was not due to exceptional global demand or tariff-driven front-loading. Instead, he attributed it to seasonal factors and a low comparative base due to last year’s political disruptions, which had halted factory operations and slowed production.
“This year, without such disruptions, production returned to normal,” Parvez said. “So, the growth we’re seeing is more of a seasonal rebound than a sudden spike in global demand.”
Despite the optimistic numbers, Parvez urged caution. “Buyers in the US and Europe are still hesitant. Some held back orders until early August. We expect exports to slow in August and September, which are traditionally lean months, before picking up again from October.” He also mentioned concerns over the impact of reduced US reciprocal tariffs, which have dropped to 20% from 35%. “If retail prices increase even by $2–$3, major retailers like Walmart and Target may cut order volumes, potentially reducing sales by up to 35%,” he warned.
Currently, the industry is fulfilling winter season orders expected to continue through mid-August, with shipments for summer and Christmas collections set to begin in September. However, many buyers are still finalizing order confirmations, and full clarity may take a few more months, Parvez added.
Asif Ibrahim, Vice Chairman of Newage Group and former BGMEA Director, offered a more bullish outlook. He attributed the strong July figures to a combination of global and domestic factors — including front-loading by international buyers anticipating possible US tariff hikes, which led to accelerated shipment volumes.
Ibrahim also noted that geopolitical uncertainties, especially related to China, had prompted global brands to diversify sourcing, positioning Bangladesh as a reliable alternative. “Traditional markets such as the EU, US, and Canada remained strong, while markets like Japan, India, and Australia showed robust growth,” he said.
Overall, while the July export data presents a promising picture, industry leaders stress that sustained policy support, transparency in customs operations, and consistent global demand are essential for maintaining the momentum.
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