Bangladesh’s Apparel Export to US Hits $4.25b, Up 25pc

File photo: Garment factory

Bangladesh’s apparel exports to the United States surged to $4.25 billion during the first half of 2025 (January–June), marking a robust 25.12% year-on-year growth, according to trade data analysed by the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA).

This sharp increase comes at a time when total US apparel imports reached $38.16 billion, reflecting a 6.74% rise compared to the same period in 2024. The growth suggests a renewed global demand and a gradual recovery of the US retail sector.

While several apparel-exporting countries showed positive growth during the period, Bangladesh emerged as one of the top performers both in terms of value and volume.

From May to June 2025 alone, Bangladesh’s apparel export to the US rose from $547.42 million to $723.08 million, representing a month-on-month growth of 32.09%, according to Mohiuddin Rubel, former director of the BGMEA and a spokesperson for the trade body.

In terms of volume, Bangladesh exported 23.81% more pieces than the same period in the previous year, while the unit price per piece rose by 1.06%, indicating steady demand and pricing strength.

Interestingly, China—long the dominant player in the US apparel market—saw a sharp decline, with a negative growth rate of 16.07% and a 12.78% drop in export volume. Moreover, China’s unit price dropped by 3.77%, further highlighting its struggles in the competitive landscape.

Meanwhile, South and Southeast Asian countries witnessed healthy gains: India saw a 16.26% rise in value and 15.92% growth in volume while Pakistan posted 11.21% growth in value and 15.76% in volume, Vietnam increased 17.96% in value and 13.82% in volume, with a 3.64% rise in unit price, Indonesia and Cambodia posted gains of 17.95% and 24.28%, respectively, with Cambodia also recording a notable 31.11% jump in volume, though its unit price fell by 5.21%.

The data reflects shifting dynamics in the global apparel trade. Bangladesh’s performance highlights its growing competitiveness, driven by quality, compliance, price efficiency, and capacity. The steady rise in both quantity and unit price underscores its resilience and growing preference among US buyers.

Industry insiders believe Bangladesh could further strengthen its foothold in the US market in the coming months if the momentum continues, aided by stable production, compliance standards, and policy support.