Bangladesh apparel exports to the US increased by 11.71 per cent in 2025, defying a broader contraction in the United States apparel import market and reinforcing Bangladesh’s position as a leading sourcing destination for American retailers. The latest data highlight the country’s growing competitiveness in the global apparel supply chain despite softer consumer demand and trade uncertainty.
According to the Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA), total US apparel imports stood at $77.88 billion during January–December 2025, marking a 1.74 per cent decline compared to the same period in 2024. In volume terms, measured in square metre equivalent (SME), imports fell by 3.70 per cent, while the average unit price increased by 2.03 per cent, indicating pricing pressure amid weaker demand conditions.
In contrast, US apparel imports from Bangladesh reached $8.20 billion in 2025, the second-highest annual figure on record. Imports from Bangladesh also rose by 3.33 per cent in December 2025 compared to December 2024.
Bangladesh’s market share in total US apparel imports climbed to 10.53 per cent in 2025, consolidating its status as one of the top suppliers to the world’s largest consumer market. The performance comes at a time when global buyers are reassessing sourcing strategies amid shifting trade policies and geopolitical uncertainties.
Among major suppliers, Vietnam accounted for 21.50 per cent of total US apparel imports in 2025, followed by China at 13.66 per cent. India held 6.35 per cent, Cambodia 6.20 per cent, and Indonesia 5.98 per cent. While Vietnam continues to dominate the US apparel market, China’s share has been declining.
Data trends show that Bangladesh and Vietnam posted similar patterns in value growth, unit price movement and volume performance during 2025. However, Vietnam maintains a substantially larger overall market share.
The broader US apparel market experienced weaker growth in the second half of 2025 compared to the first half. Imports during the final quarter fell short of expectations amid uncertainty surrounding reciprocal tariff measures and subdued consumer spending.
Mohiuddin Rubel, former director of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association and additional managing director of Denim Expert Ltd, said Bangladesh performed strongly despite reciprocal tariff concerns and declining overall demand.
He noted that China is losing ground in the US apparel market, while Bangladesh and Vietnam are demonstrating comparable trends in value, unit price and volume growth, although Vietnam retains a larger share.
Rubel added that Bangladesh’s sustained expansion in the US market reflects buyer confidence, improved compliance standards and the industry’s ability to adapt to evolving global trade dynamics.
The 2025 performance underscores Bangladesh’s strategic importance in global apparel sourcing and signals resilience in a challenging international trade environment.
