RMG Exports Surge by 37% in Early 2025

Bangladesh's readymade garment (RMG) exports saw a remarkable surge of 36.99% in January-February 2025, buoyed by a strong 39.02% increase in volume. However, a 1.46% drop in unit prices highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining profitability within the sector.

Exports to the European Union (EU) saw substantial growth, reaching $3.69 billion during the first two months of 2025, compared to $2.69 billion during the same period in 2024. The EU's apparel imports surged by 17.81%, amounting to $16.10 billion in January-February 2025, driven by a 28.66% rise in volume, although average unit prices dropped by 8.44%.

Industry experts attribute this positive trend to several factors, including an emphasis on value-added garment production, the EU's economic recovery, duty-free access to the European market, adherence to global safety standards, and collaborative efforts between manufacturers and workers. These factors have significantly boosted buyer confidence, strengthening Bangladesh's position in the global apparel market.

The outlook for 2025 remains optimistic, with expectations of sustained growth as new work orders continue to flow into the country. As buyers diversify their sourcing activities in Bangladesh, the upward trajectory is expected to persist, even amidst rising geopolitical tensions between the US and other nations.

Other Asian countries such as China, India, Pakistan, and Cambodia also experienced notable growth in January-February 2025. China's apparel exports to the EU rose to $4.54 billion, up from $3.63 billion in the same period last year. Meanwhile, Turkey saw a 3.64% decline in its exports, reaching $1.61 billion, while Vietnam recorded a 16.58% increase, reaching $759 million.

India, Pakistan, and Cambodia also made significant gains, securing $865 million, $711 million, and $775 million, respectively, in the EU market for the same period.

In a statement to BSS, Mohiuddin Rubel, former Director of Brand BGMEA, Managing Director of Bangladesh Apparel Exchange, and Additional Managing Director of Denim Expert Ltd., highlighted the need for strategic adjustments to sustain growth. "While Bangladesh has shown resilience in maintaining both export volume and value, it is crucial to adapt in order to maintain our competitive edge and improve profit margins, especially as global prices continue to decline," Rubel said.

He emphasized that value addition and expanding market reach will be key to Bangladesh's economic sustainability and long-term prosperity.