The demand for Bangladeshi denim garments is gradually improving as Western economies recover, though competition remains intense with major producers like Turkey, Pakistan, and Vietnam. Denim sales had slowed in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and inflation pressures in Western markets.
Pacific Jeans’ Managing Director Syed M Tanvir noted that Bangladesh’s denim sector faces challenges, including the EU’s due diligence and carbon reduction requirements set for 2026 and 2030, respectively. To compete globally, local denim mills need more value addition. Tanvir aims for a 12% export growth this year, supported by efforts in value addition and quality.
At the 17th Bangladesh Denim Expo, industry leaders addressed concerns over labor unrest and political instability, which have impacted retailers’ confidence in Bangladesh’s supply chain. Md Ali Rasul of Team Group said that a return to stability could bring back shifted work orders. Ziaur Rahman of H&M emphasized the importance of transparency, collective discussion over unrest, and responsibility in supply chain management, urging more investment in workforce development and technology.
International representatives like Yilmaz Demir of Bossa from Turkey and Muhammad Monsoor Bilal of Pakistan’s Naveena Group expressed optimism. Demir viewed the demand slowdown as temporary, while Bilal, who supplies denim to Bangladesh, expects his business there to grow by 25% due to Bangladesh’s competitive pricing and quality.
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