Bangladesh’s export earnings have declined for the fifth consecutive month, hit by weak demand in the US and rising competition from China and India in Europe. According to the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), December exports fell 14.25% year-on-year to $3.89 billion, while overall earnings from July–December dropped 2.19% to just under $24 billion.
The apparel sector, which accounts for 85% of exports, saw shipments fall over 14%, with small and medium factories most affected. US tariffs and aggressive marketing by China and India in the EU have intensified pressure on Bangladesh’s garment exports.
Other sectors, including agricultural products, plastics, and frozen foods, also saw declines, while leather, jute, and engineering products recorded growth. Experts warn that continued export weakness could strain foreign reserves and call for exploring new markets and products.