Bangladesh’s merchandise exports remained almost unchanged in January. 

Shipments totaled $4.41 billion during the month, a decline of 0.50 percent compared with the same period last year, according to data from the Export Promotion Bureau.

Exporters said international clothing retailers placed fewer orders ahead of the country’s general election.

Exports rose on a month-to-month basis. January shipments were 11.22 percent higher than December, when exports stood at $3.96 billion.

The latest figures marked the sixth consecutive month of declining year-on-year export performance. During the first seven months of the current fiscal year, exports fell 1.93 percent to $28.41 billion.

Garments posted a decline during the July to January period. Apparel shipments dropped 2.43 percent to $22.98 billion. Knitwear exports fell 3.13 percent, while woven garments declined 1.60 percent.

BKMEA president Mohammad Hatem said exports may recover more strongly from June.

Outside garments, export performance was mixed. Leather goods, jute products, home textiles, and light engineering recorded growth. Ceramics, cotton products, and non-leather footwear saw declines.

The United States remained Bangladesh’s largest export destination. Shipments to the US rose during the July to January period. Exports to the European Union also showed positive trends.

Exporters said stability in global trade policies could support a gradual recovery in the coming months.