Bangladesh’s RMG Exports Dip 0.63% In H1 2026: EPB

Bangladesh's ready-made garment (RMG) exports declined marginally by 0.63 per cent year-on-year to $19.34 billion during the first half (January-June) of 2026, according to the latest data released by the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB).

The country's apparel export earnings stood at $19.46 billion during the same period in 2025.

A sector-wise analysis showed mixed performance, with woven garments registering modest growth while knitwear exports declined.

Exports of woven garments rose 0.68 per cent to $9.20 billion during the January-June period, whereas knitwear exports fell 1.80 per cent to $10.14 billion.

Commenting on the latest figures, Mohiuddin Rubel, founder and chief executive officer of Bangladesh Apparel Voice, said the export performance reflects the resilience of the country's apparel industry despite an increasingly uncertain global market.

He said the sector has continued to demonstrate adaptability by maintaining relatively stable export earnings amid fluctuating global demand and changing market conditions.

Rubel also stressed the importance of accelerating the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technologies to enhance productivity, improve competitiveness and sustain the long-term growth of Bangladesh's RMG industry.