Bangladesh's ready-made garment (RMG) exports to the European Union (EU) increased by 61 per ecnt in January, outpacing key competitors like China, Vietnam, Turkey, and India. As per data from Eurostat, apparel exports increased tp €1.91 billion from €1.18 billion in the same month last year.
Knitwear exports expanded by 64.2 per cent to €1.14 billion, while woven garment exports increased by 56.3 per cent to €765.96 million. Overall, Bangladesh's garment shipments to the EU rose by over 58 per cent in volume, reaching 126.86 million kg.
Exporters attribute this growth to rising global demand, a shift of work orders from China, and duty-free market access. Domestic factors include competitive pricing, enhanced capacity, efficiency, productivity, workplace safety, and quality production. These developments have strengthened buyer confidence and created a favorable business environment.
The EU's total apparel imports grew by 32 per cent to €8.28 billion. Among Bangladesh's competitors, China saw a 40.81 per cent increase, while India, Pakistan, and Cambodia experienced double-digit growth.
Citing the industry’s recovery, Fazlul Hoque, Former president of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), says, the growth is encouraging.
