Dhaka:Bangladesh's exports to Turkey have more than doubled in the first quarter of the fiscal year 2026-27, underscoring Turkey's potential as a significant market for Bangladesh's export diversification efforts. Exports reached $210.54 million from July to September 2026, marking a 100.11 percent increase from $105.21 million during the same period of the previous fiscal year, as reported by the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB).
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Bangladesh's primary exports to Turkey include apparel products. Additionally, jute and jute goods, footwear, and optical, medical, and textile-related equipment are significant export items. This surge in exports presents an opportunity for Bangladesh to strengthen its foothold in the Turkish market and explore new product categories.
Fazle Shamim Ehsan, Executive President of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), highlighted that the rising standards of living and income levels in Turkey are leading to a decline in local readymade garment production, thus increasing the demand for imports. This trend provides Bangladesh with a promising opportunity to expand its RMG exports to Turkey by capitalizing on its production capacity, quality, competitive pricing, and timely delivery.
Ehsan also emphasized the importance of diversification and value addition in Bangladesh's exports, suggesting that there is room to grow markets for high-value garments, man-made fibers, technical textiles, jute products, and footwear. Strengthening connectivity and business relations with Turkey through government and private sector collaboration is crucial for market expansion.
EPB Vice Chairman Muhammad Hasan Arif noted the need for Bangladeshi exporters to focus on product-wise export performance and market opportunities to identify products with strong demand. This strategy would help expand Bangladesh's export footprint and reduce reliance on a limited range of products and markets.
Bangladesh's overall export growth for the first quarter of FY2026-27 was 6.34 percent, with total merchandise exports rising to $13.09 billion. Arif pointed out that apart from clothing, jute goods could significantly expand in the Turkish market, especially through promoting diversified and value-added products.
He also mentioned that increasing exports of optical, medical, and textile-related equipment would require a thorough assessment of demand, technical standards, and the capacity of Bangladeshi manufacturers. Trade promotion activities, including buyer-seller meetings and participation in international trade fairs, are vital for identifying new opportunities in Turkey. Maintaining competitive prices, consistent quality, and reliable delivery services are essential for sustaining growth in this market.