Bangladesh exported goods worth $195.17 million to 11 South American markets during the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2026–27, driven by initiatives to broaden export destinations through international trade fairs and non-traditional product promotion.
Latest data from the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) shows Brazil, Chile, and Peru emerged as the top three destinations in the region during the July–September period. Brazil led the list with $70.82 million, followed by Chile with $51.87 million and Peru with $24.24 million.
Exports to Colombia stood at $18.05 million, whilst Uruguay and Argentina imported goods valued at $11.63 million and $10.28 million, respectively. Brazil and Chile combined accounted for $122.69 million, representing nearly 62.9 per cent of total shipments to the 11 regional markets.
These trade figures highlight South America’s growing potential as a promising market for Bangladeshi commodities beyond traditional European and North American destinations.
Apparel dominates regional shipments
Readymade garments remained the primary driver of exports to the region.
Product-wise figures from the EPB reveal that woven apparel and clothing accessories generated approximately $84.53 million, whilst knitted or crocheted apparel fetched about $70.10 million during the three-month period.
Together, apparel exports totalled around $154.63 million, accounting for nearly 79.2 per cent of total earnings from the 11 South American nations. Pharmaceutical products contributed around $6.58 million, and footwear with related items accounted for roughly $5.71 million.
The export basket also included other textile goods, leather items, and travel articles, pointing to scope for expanding non-apparel lines in the region.
Promoting non-traditional goods
To showcase non-traditional items, Bangladesh participated in Home Show Brazil 2026, held from August 11 to 13 at Distrito Anhembi in São Paulo.
Organised with financial backing from the EPB and under the management of the Bangladesh Embassy in Brasília, the event featured four Bangladeshi firms – Jihan Plastic Industries, Mother Tannery, Rainbow Jute, and Classical Handmade Products – across five exhibition booths.
Displays showcased jute goods, bags, leather items, natural-fibre baskets, home décor, bamboo products, terracotta, clay items, and Nakshi Kantha.
Additionally, the EPB and the Bangladesh Embassy operated a joint promotional booth providing information on exportable products and key export sectors.
The exhibition included business-to-business meetings, visits from prospective buyers, and a specialised seminar detailing the production and export of Bangladeshi home and lifestyle products for Brazilian trade bodies and international buyers.
Participation enabled Bangladeshi firms to introduce their products to a wider audience and establish key commercial links for future trade.
Focus on market diversification
Speaking on export expansion, Mohammad Hasan Arif, vice chairman and chief executive of the EPB, told BSS that the bureau is working to diversify the national export basket and fortify Bangladesh’s foothold in emerging global markets through strategic trade fair participation.
He noted that heavy reliance on readymade garments and a restricted group of export destinations leaves national earnings vulnerable to external shocks, making market expansion essential.
Arif stressed that exporters must undertake thorough advance research regarding market demand, consumer preferences, pricing, competition, and commercial practices prior to attending international fairs to secure optimal results.
He further underscored the necessity of enhancing national pavilion branding, sharpening exporter readiness, and establishing direct contacts with international buyers to convert exhibition presence into lasting business partnerships.
