Bangladesh’s ready-made garment (RMG) exports fell 1.64% year-on-year to US$38.70 billion in FY2025-26, as weaker demand in the European Union offset gains in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom.
The apparel sector remained the country’s largest export earner, accounting for 80.63% of Bangladesh’s total exports of US$48.00 billion during the fiscal year.
Exports to the United States rose 2.63%, while shipments to Canada and the United Kingdom also increased, indicating steady demand in several of Bangladesh’s key apparel markets.
However, exports to the European Union, which represented 49.25% of Bangladesh’s total RMG exports, declined 3.31%, highlighting the sector’s continued reliance on the bloc. Exports to non-traditional markets also fell 4.25%, suggesting slower momentum in emerging destinations.
Knitwear remained the largest export category, contributing US$20.62 billion, or 53.29% of total RMG exports, while woven garments generated US$18.08 billion, accounting for 46.71%.
Also Read: Bangladesh’s RMG Exports Reach US$38.70 Billion in FY2025-26 Despite Global Challenges
Key FY2025-26 Figures
Total RMG exports: US$38.70 billion
Total national exports: US$48.00 billion
Share of national exports: 80.63%
Overall RMG export growth: -1.64%
Knitwear: US$20.62 billion (53.29%)
Woven garments: US$18.08 billion (46.71%)
Export market shares:
European Union: 49.25%
United States: 20.01%
United Kingdom: 11.34%
Canada: 3.47%
Non-traditional markets: 15.93%
The figures suggest Bangladesh’s apparel industry remained resilient despite a challenging global trade environment, although continued dependence on the European market leaves the sector vulnerable to shifts in consumer demand. Industry observers say greater product diversification, investment in higher value-added manufacturing, sustainability, digitalization and expansion into new markets will be important to support long-term export growth.