Bangladesh’s garment exports to the European Union fell sharply in the first half of 2026, with EU imports declining 16.43% year on year to €8.6448 billion from €10.3444 billion. The decline of about €1.70 billion came as the EU clothing market weakened between January and June, adding pressure to Bangladesh’s competitive position in the European market.

Eurostat data showed the EU’s total garment imports from global suppliers fell 9.70% to €41.10 billion during the six-month period, while import volume dropped 6.40% and average unit prices declined 3.53%. Bangladesh’s supplied volume fell 8.22%, while its average unit price dropped 8.94% to €13.88 per kilogram. Most major suppliers, including China, Turkey, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Cambodia and Indonesia, also recorded negative growth.

There were signs of a limited recovery in June. EU garment imports from Bangladesh rose 0.87% that month to €1.3674 billion, as supply increased 6.53% despite a 5.31% fall in average prices. Vietnam was the exception over the six months, posting 0.36% growth as its average unit price rose 13.43% to €29.32 per kilogram.