Don’t Let Basic Apparel Limit Our Export Growth

Bangladesh’s apparel industry has been at the heart of our export growth for decades and has earned a strong position in the global market. Much of this success, however, has come from a limited range of garments. We have shown that we can produce large volumes at competitive prices, but the market is now changing and production costs are rising. As these pressures grow, it is becoming increasingly difficult to rely on the same product mix, particularly as Bangladesh prepares to graduate from the least developed country (LDC) category. We therefore need to expand our product range to sustain export growth and earn greater value from our apparel exports.

A recent analysis by the Bangladesh Apparel Exchange, based on 2025 data from the International Trade Centre and the Export Promotion Bureau, highlights the gap. According to the study, basic products accounted for 76.94 per cent of Bangladesh’s apparel exports, compared with 61.58 per cent globally. Bottomwear alone made up 33.68 per cent, while T-shirts and vests accounted for 18.64 per cent. In contrast, outerwear, dresses, technical wear, sportswear and suits together represented only 9.35 per cent of our exports, against 30.46 per cent globally. Non-cotton products show a similar disparity, making up around 75 per cent of global apparel products but only about 27 per cent of our exports. These figures underline how narrowly Bangladesh is positioned within the wider global apparel market.

This concentration leaves manufacturers exposed as the cost of doing business increases and international competition becomes tougher. Our ability to offer low-cost garments has helped secure large orders, but wages, energy costs and other expenses are putting pressure on that advantage. Other producing countries are also seeking a larger share of the market. Moreover, LDC graduation could change some of the trade preferences Bangladesh currently enjoys. Under these circumstances, depending heavily on a few product categories could limit future earnings.

Diversification must therefore become a practical priority. Bangladesh needs to expand into man-made fibre, synthetic and functional apparel, technical wear, sportswear, outerwear and other sophisticated segments. Achieving this will require investment in product design, research and development, modern technology, skilled workers and quality control. A stronger domestic supply chain for man-made fibres and advanced materials is equally necessary. The government should provide the policy and infrastructure support for this transition, while manufacturers need to invest in technology, skills and productivity.

We expect the government and industry leaders to act with greater urgency. Bangladesh has already demonstrated its ability to compete through scale and cost. The next challenge is to build greater strength in design, quality, technology and value. Our success in basic apparel should provide a foundation for entering more sophisticated markets, rather than becoming a constraint on future growth. A wider and more balanced product basket will help the industry adapt to changing demand and keep its place as a major pillar of our export economy.