Bangladesh’s garment exports to the European Union (EU) soared by 52.56% year-on-year in January 2025, reaching $1.97 billion, according to Eurostat data. The export volume surged by 58.08%, although the average unit price declined by 3.49%.

The EU’s overall apparel imports grew by 25.12% to $8.57 billion in January, driven by a 41.10% rise in shipment volume and an 11.33% drop in unit prices.

Former Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) director Mohiuddin Rubel attributed the strong performance to value-added production, duty-free market access, compliance with safety standards, and benefits from new US tariffs.

He noted that these factors have strengthened buyer confidence, reinforcing Bangladesh’s position in the EU market.

Rubel expressed optimism about future growth, expecting increased work orders throughout 2025 as international buyers expand sourcing from Bangladesh.

In comparison, China’s garment exports to the EU rose by 33.55% to $2.46 billion, while India, Pakistan, and Cambodia registered growth rates of 36.99%, 25.12%, and 63.54%, respectively. Vietnam’s exports grew by 27.35% to $412 million, while Turkey recorded a slight decline of 0.03% to $904 million.