However, the distribution of the country’s apparel exports across individual European markets appears to be changing.
Figures from the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), cited in media reports, indicate that during the first quarter of FY2026–27, Bangladesh’s RMG exports to Spain reportedly rose 13.73 per cent year-on-year to $1.148 billion, overtaking Germany, where shipments reportedly amounted to approximately $1.123 billion, down 0.15 per cent.
Bangladesh’s EU RMG exports fell 11.67 per cent in January–August 2026 as market share slipped from 21.5 per cent to 19.8 per cent.
Spain overtook Germany in Q1 FY2026–27, with shipments up 13.73 per cent to $1.148 billion against Germany’s $1.123 billion.
Volumes fell 4.58 per cent and unit prices 7.43 per cent, while China and Vietnam gained ground ahead of Bangladesh’s LDC graduation.
A year earlier, Germany reportedly led Spain by approximately $115 million, but Spain held a narrow lead of around $25 million in the first quarter of FY2026–27.
However, country-level developments tell only part of the story. A broader assessment of Bangladesh’s position in the EU apparel market points to a more concerning trend, with exports and market share declining alongside export volumes and average unit prices.
According to media reports citing Eurostat data, Bangladesh’s apparel exports to the EU fell 11.67 per cent year-on-year during January–August 2026. Its share of total EU apparel imports reportedly declined from 21.5 per cent to 19.8 per cent, while the bloc’s overall apparel imports fell by a comparatively modest 3.83 per cent. Bangladesh’s export volume also reportedly declined 4.58 per cent, while its average unit price fell 7.43 per cent.
The performance of competing suppliers adds another dimension to this trend. China’s apparel exports to the EU reportedly rose 2.38 per cent, increasing its market share to 32.7 per cent, while Vietnam’s exports reportedly grew 4.46 per cent.
Bangladesh’s impending graduation from least developed country (LDC) status adds to these concerns, as changes in trade preferences could affect its competitiveness against rival suppliers.
Spain’s move ahead of Germany marks a notable shift in the distribution of Bangladesh’s apparel exports within the EU, although one quarter’s figures are insufficient to establish a lasting change. More significant is the decline in Bangladesh’s overall market share amid falling export volumes and average unit prices, while some competing suppliers continue to gain ground.
As trade preferences and buyer requirements evolve, stakeholders emphasised that Bangladesh would have to strengthen competitiveness across the EU rather than focusing on individual markets.
Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DR)
