Bangladesh Captures 10% of US Apparel Imports as China’s Role Shrinks

Bangladesh has secured roughly 10% of the U.S. apparel import market, gaining ground as U.S. demand officially shifts away from China, according to recent trade data.

Between 2018 and 2024, Bangladeshi garment exports to the U.S. climbed from $5.4 billion to $7.34 billion, a nearly 36% increase, while China’s exports dropped from $27.4 billion to $16.5 billion — a 40% plunge.

This trend has narrowed the gap between the two countries’ market shares significantly.

Bangladesh now accounts for about 9–10% of total U.S. apparel imports, up from under 9% in previous years . In the first quarter of 2025 alone, its shipments surged 26.6% year-over-year, totaling $2.22 billion, outperforming India, Pakistan, Vietnam, and China.

Industry experts say tariffs on Chinese goods and brands’ strategies to mitigate trade risk have accelerated sourcing diversification.

Bangladesh’s competitive pricing, adherence to labor/environmental standards, and ramped-up capacity have solidified its standing.

Despite this progress, challenges remain. Political instability and inflation in the U.S. market have weighed on demand, and Bangladesh’s share dipped slightly in early 2024. Still, the country continues to show resilience amid shifting supply chains.