Bangladesh’s apparel exports to non-traditional markets declined by 5.95 per cent year-on-year during the July-May period of the current fiscal year, according to Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) data compiled by the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA).
Export earnings from these markets stood at $5.68 billion during the period. In Bangladesh’s classification, non-traditional markets include all destinations except the United States, the European Union (EU), the United Kingdom and Canada.
The overall export performance of the garment sector also showed a downward trend. Total ready-made garment (RMG) exports reached $35.31 billion in July-May of FY2025-26, reflecting a 3.41 per cent year-on-year decline.
Among major destinations, exports to the European Union dropped by 4.88 per cent to $17.36 billion. Shipments to the United States saw a marginal decline of 0.04 per cent, amounting to $7.03 billion. Exports to the United Kingdom also decreased by 0.50 per cent to $4.02 billion. However, Canada recorded a modest growth of 2.27 per cent, with exports reaching $1.23 billion.
A breakdown of product categories shows that both major segments of the industry experienced contraction. Knitwear exports fell by 4.26 per cent to $18.78 billion, while woven garment exports declined by 2.42 per cent to $16.52 billion during the same period.
Industry stakeholders have long identified non-traditional markets as a key area for diversification to reduce dependence on major Western buyers. However, the latest figures suggest continued weakness in expanding export momentum beyond core destinations.
The overall decline reflects broader global demand pressures and shifting trade dynamics affecting Bangladesh’s export-oriented apparel industry.
