Business Desk 

Bangladesh's apparel exports to the European Union (EU) witnessed a notable surge, reaching US$8.07 billion during the January-April period of 2025, up significantly from $6.51 billion in the same period of 2024.

This impressive growth represents a 23.98 percent rise in the country’s readymade garment (RMG) exports, largely fuelled by a 19.71 percent increase in export volume.

According to Eurostat, the EU’s global apparel imports also saw substantial growth in the first four months of 2025, rising by 14.21 percent to a total of $32.49 billion.

This overall rise was accompanied by a notable 15.84 percent increase in volume, despite a slight 1.41 percent drop in average unit prices.

Bangladesh's RMG exports show moderate growth, EU remains key market

Bangladesh’s performance is particularly commendable for its rising unit prices across various categories within the EU, even as China maintains its leading position and Vietnam continues to post strong results.

The sector, however, faces several challenges, including growing tensions in the US market and intensifying competition from China within the EU.

Besides, the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel poses significant concerns for businesses, causing trade disruptions and increased operational costs.

Industry experts stress the importance of Bangladesh maintaining its competitive edge and planning strategically for sustained growth in the EU market.

This includes strict compliance with forthcoming EU regulations, which are expected to influence the volume of work orders from 2025 onwards.

At the same time, continued efforts to explore new markets are considered vital for diversifying Bangladesh’s export portfolio and reducing dependence on the EU and US markets.

A comparative analysis of major apparel exporters to the EU during this period reveals substantial growth among several countries:

China’s apparel exports to the EU reached $8.39 billion, up from $6.90 billion in the same period of 2024—an increase of 21.49 percent in value and a notable 7.37 percent rise in unit price.

Vietnam posted a 15.62 percent growth, with exports totalling $1.48 billion, alongside a 5.68 percent increase in unit price.

Bangladeshi apparel exports to US market grow slightly amid global market pressure

India, Pakistan, and Cambodia recorded exports of $2.01 billion, $1.42 billion, and $1.56 billion respectively, with growth rates of 20.58 percent, 23.42 percent, and 31.78 percent.

In contrast, Turkey experienced a 5.41 percent decline in apparel exports to the EU, totalling $3.10 billion during January-April 2025.