Accra:Bangladesh's apparel exports to the European Union may see an upswing later this year and in 2027 as the decline in European apparel imports begins to narrow, raising optimism for Bangladesh's export prospects.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Eurostat data reveals that the EU imported apparel worth £60.29 billion from January to August 2026, marking a 3.83 percent decrease from £62.69 billion in the same period the previous year. Import volumes fell by 2.57 percent, and the average unit price saw a 1.29 percent drop to £19.65 per kilogram.
During this timeframe, Bangladesh's apparel exports to the EU declined by 11.67 percent to £11.93 billion from £13.50 billion the year before, a decrease of approximately £1.58 billion. Export volumes decreased by 4.58 percent, and the average unit price fell 7.43 percent to £13.76 per kilogram.
However, August showed signs of recovery for EU apparel imports, with a 0.72 percent increase in value compared to August 2025, despite a 0.57 percent decline in volume and a 1.29 percent rise in average unit price.
Mohiuddin Rubel, a former director of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association, noted that Europe had faced economic pressures reducing imports, but recent trends indicate a recovery. He mentioned that Bangladesh had performed better in the European market over the last three months compared to earlier in the year, with European imports gradually increasing.
If this trend continues, Bangladesh could experience stronger export growth towards the end of the year and into 2027. Rubel emphasized the European market's importance, accounting for nearly 50 percent of Bangladesh's apparel exports and supplying around 20 percent of the EU's total apparel imports.
Rubel stressed the need for Bangladesh to maintain competitiveness and compliance with European regulations to sustain export growth. He advocated for investment in value-added products, diversification, and stronger engagement with international brands. Expanding offerings of higher-value garments and diverse fibres could improve Bangladesh's competitive position.
He also highlighted the importance of progress in sustainability and compliance to ensure long-term growth and urged preparation for challenges linked to Bangladesh's graduation from the least developed country category, particularly the potential loss of trade preferences under the EU's Generalised Scheme of Preferences.
Rubel concluded that sustained competitiveness, diversification, sustainability, and compliance improvements would help Bangladesh benefit from recovering European demand.