The value of garment exports from Bangladesh to countries in the European Union (EU) grew by 5.97 per cent year-on-year to €19.41 billion in 2025 thanks to a sharp rise in shipments, according to Eurostat.
Data provided by the bloc’s statistical office shows that export volumes increased by 10.20 per cent, while the average unit price fell by 3.84 per cent, reflecting mounting price competition.
Industry insiders said the decline in unit prices was due to the strong presence of Chinese and Indian apparels in the EU, as local suppliers were pressured to offer more competitive pricing in face of higher competition.
However, the latest monthly data signals a slowdown. In December, Bangladesh’s apparel exports to the EU fell 12.05 per cent in value compared with the same month a year earlier.
Export volumes also fell by 0.61 per cent at the same time, while unit prices dropped sharply by 11.50 per cent, indicating a softer market towards the end of the year.
Overall, the EU’s apparel imports grew 2.10 per cent year-on-year to €90.00 billion in 2025. The increase was driven by a 13.78 per cent rise in import volume, while average unit prices fell 10.27 per cent.
This suggests that buyers sourced larger quantities at lower prices the amid persistent inflationary pressure in the region.
Among major competitors, China strengthened its position in the EU market.
Exports from China rose 1.17 per cent to €26.58 billion in 2025. While Chinese unit prices dropped 9.38 per cent, and shipment volumes surged 11.64 per cent, underscoring its aggressive pricing strategy and focus on the EU amid challenges in the US.
Vietnam also performed strongly, recording 9.66 per cent growth to €4.38 billion, supported by a 4.51 per cent increase in unit prices.
In contrast, Turkey experienced a 10.73 per cent decline in apparel exports to the EU, with shipments totalling €8.34 billion during the year.
Commenting on the trend, Mohiuddin Rubel, additional managing director of Denim Expert Ltd, said the growth in volume demonstrates Bangladesh’s resilience and strong sourcing base, but the fall in unit prices remains a concern.
“The data shows that buyers are placing larger orders but at lower prices,” Rubel said. “Sustaining competitiveness will require improvements in productivity, lead time and value addition.”
Rubel, also a former BGMEA director, further said that the sharp drop in December suggests that global demand remains fragile.
Besides, price competition in the EU is intensifying, particularly from China and India, he added.
