Driven by RMG sectorExports jump nearly 25pc in July

Bangladesh’s export earnings rose by 24.90% in July, the first month of the 2025-26 fiscal year, reaching $4.77 billion, up from $3.81 billion in the same month last year, according to data released by the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) on Monday.

The surge was largely driven by the ready-made garment (RMG) sector, which posted $3.96 billion in exports – an increase of 24.67% year-on-year.

Besides RMG, exports of leather and leather goods, agro-processed items, home textiles, jute products, engineering goods, frozen foods, and plastic products also saw growth during the month.

In the previous fiscal year (2024-25), Bangladesh’s total exports stood at $48.28 billion.

Industry insiders attributed the July boost to political stability, improved global demand, and smooth production conditions.

Exporters have attributed the June dip to a confluence of disruptive factors, including reduced order volumes from major global brands, ongoing buyer uncertainty over US tariff issues, domestic gas supply shortages, and an extended Eid holiday period which affected production and shipment schedules.

Despite these challenges, the strong recovery in July suggests renewed momentum in Bangladesh’s export sector, driven by increased global demand and a resilient manufacturing base.

Industry stakeholders are hopeful that this positive start will set the tone for continued growth in the months ahead.

“Last July, we struggled to deliver shipments due to political unrest. This year, with a stable political climate and no labour disruption, exports moved smoothly,” said Faisal Samad, director of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and managing director of Surma Garments Ltd.

He added that exporters now need to negotiate strategically to maintain growth, especially with the US imposing a 20% reciprocal tariff.

Another BGMEA director, Mohammed Sohel, noted that some June shipments were carried over into July, possibly boosting the month’s figures. He warned, however, that exports may dip in August.

Former BGMEA director Mohiuddin Rubel echoed that Eid-related disruptions in June shifted export volumes to July. He also said the US tariff issue has been addressed.

“We expect exports to grow further as there are no major obstacles on the horizon,” added Rubel, who is also managing director of Bangladesh Apparel Exchange.

Stylish Garments Ltd chairman M Salauddin Chowdhury said exports were stagnant last July due to the political turmoil linked to the July Uprising Movement. “Now, with improved demand and ease of operations, our exports are on the rise,” he said.

He also urged US buyers to absorb the imposed tariff, pointing out that Bangladesh already offers competitive pricing.