Bangladesh Secures Over 21% of Europe’s Apparel Market Share

Over the last five years (2021–2025), Bangladesh achieved a remarkable 36% export growth, the highest among major competing nations, solidifying its status as the second-largest apparel supplier to the EU. As of the latest 2025 data, Bangladesh's market share has reached 21.57%, while China holds 29.54%.

Analysis of Eurostat data reveals a steady upward trajectory in earnings. In 2021, Bangladesh’s export revenue stood at 14,295 million euros, which surged to 19,414.55 million euros by 2025. During this same period, India saw a growth of 33.18%, whereas Turkey's exports experienced a decline of 9.48%. Market analysts and leaders from the BGMEA attribute this success to competitive pricing, supply chain stability, and the increasing number of environmentally friendly "green" factories that have won the trust of European buyers.

Despite this robust growth, industry insiders are highlighting the need for long-term strategic planning as Bangladesh prepares for its LDC (Least Developed Country) graduation. To mitigate post-graduation challenges and maintain preferential access to the European market, experts are urging the government to expedite the signing of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the EU. Ensuring continued duty-free access will be crucial to remaining competitive against other emerging manufacturing hubs in the coming years.