Bangladesh's apparel exports to EU jump to $8.07bn

Bangladesh's apparel exports to the European Union (EU) have surged to $8.07 billion during the January-April period of 2025 up from $6.51 billion during the same period of last year.

The country's readymade garment (RMG) exports in the same period grew by 23.98%, supported by a strong 19.71% increase in volume. Additionally, there was a 3.57% increase in unit price, showcasing balanced growth in export amount, volume, and price in the EU market.

According to Eurostat, in January-April 2025, the EU experienced significant growth, with a 14.21% increase amounting to $32.49 billion from global trade. This growth was accompanied by a notable 15.84% spike in volume and a 1.41% decrease in average unit prices.

In comparison, China, India, Pakistan, and Cambodia also experienced substantial growth rates during this period. 

China's apparel exports to the EU during January-April, 2025 period reached $8.39 billion, up from $6.90 billion in the same period in 2024, with a growth rate of 21.49% in value and a remarkable 7.37% increase in unit price. 

However, Turkey faced a 5.41% decrease in apparel exports to the EU, amounting to $3.10 billion in January-April 2025, while Vietnam recorded a 15.62% growth, reaching $1.48 billion in exports with a 5.68% increase in unit price. 

India, Pakistan, and Cambodia secured $2.01 billion, $1.42 billion, and $1.56 billion in exports to the EU, with growth rates of 20.58%, 23.42%, and 31.78%, respectively.

Industry insiders said Bangladesh is showcasing notable growth across various sectors within the EU. A significant accomplishment lies in the rising unit prices, although China maintains a higher position while Vietnam is doing better as well. 

Mohiuddin Rubel, Former Director of BGMEA, said that it is imperative to uphold all competitive advantages and strategize for a robust future presence in the EU by adhering to upcoming EU regulations to cater to the anticipated growth in work orders by 2025 and onwards. 

"Simultaneously, continual exploration of new markets will fortify Bangladesh's positioning, minimizing the risk of being dependent only on the EU and the USA," Rubel, who is also the Managing Director of Bangladesh Apparel Exchange, further added.