BD’s RMG exports to US withness 18.64pc growth in Jan-Sept 2025
Business Desk :
Bangladesh’s exports of readymade garments (RMG) to the United States rose to $6.42 billion in January-September 2025, marking an 18.64 per cent growth compared to $5.41 billion in the same period of 2024, according to data from the US Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA).
The South Asian country outpaced most of its major competitors in export growth to its largest market. In terms of volume, Bangladeshi RMG exports to the US grew 19.09 per cent to 2.07 billion square metres, up from 1.74 billion square metres in January-September 2024.
In September alone, the US imported RMG items worth $779 million, up 10.64 percent from $704 million in September 2024.
Bangladesh’s market share in the US stood at 10.40 percent, making it the third-largest supplier.
However, exporters warned that the recent reciprocal tariff implemented on August 7, 2025, may affect future growth.
Mohiuddin Rubel, former director of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association, noted that while OTEXA data is two months behind, Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) figures already show a downward trend in shipments due to tariff impacts.
Globally, Vietnam remained the largest RMG supplier to the US, with exports growing 13.69 percent to $12.74 billion, while China recorded a 29.89 percent decline to $8.78 billion.
India ranked fourth with $4.10 billion in exports, followed by Indonesia and Cambodia.
Amid the ongoing US-China trade war, Bangladesh’s position has been strengthened, but challenges remain as tariffs and rising global costs affect buyer decisions.
Rubel emphasised the need for Bangladesh to focus on value-added products, diversify markets, and invet in research and innovation to maintain competitiveness.
Exporters said the tariff has reshaped global trade, increased costs, and forced buyers to scale back orders, affecting fashion and discretionary spending.
They also highlighted that domestic issues such as rising production costs and labor challenges must be addressed to sustain export growth.
Amid these challenges, Bangladesh’s RMG industry continues to benefit from strong buyer trust and a resilient supply chain, though future growth may be moderated by global trade tensions and tariff-related constraints.
Industry insiders suggest that proactive government support, coupled with strategic planning by manufacturers, could help mitigate risks and secure long-term growth in the US and other international markets.