Bangladesh's apparel exports to the United States grew by an impressive 21.66 per cent Y-o-Y in the first seven months of 2025, solidifying its position as one of the fastest-growing clothing suppliers to the world's largest market.

From January to July, Bangladesh exported apparels worth $4.98 billion to the US, significantly outpacing the overall US apparel import growth of just 4.96 per cent during the same period. In terms of volume, the number of garments from Bangladesh imported by the US increased by 20.33 per cent, while the average unit price rose by a modest 1.11 per cent.

This strong growth proves Bangladesh is consolidating its position as one of the most reliable sourcing destinations for global buyers, says Mohiuddin Rubel, Former Director, BGMEA and Managing Director, Bangladesh Apparel Exchange. Even as China's apparel exports to the US declined by more than 21 per cent, Bangladesh gained significant ground with both volume and value increases, he adds,

Once the undisputed leader in global apparel exports, China’s shipments to the US declined by 21.01 per cent in value and nearly 16 per cent in quantity. It’s average unit price also lowered by 6.05 per cent.

Meanwhile, several other Asian competitors experienced double-digit growth: Vietnam’s exports increased by 16.94 per cent, while shipments from India rose by 16.10 per cent, Pakistan by 11.81 per cent, Indonesia 16.80 per cent, and Cambodia 24.45 per cent. Cambodia emerged as largest exporter with a 31.11 per cent rise in the number of pieces shipped, with Bangladesh close behind at 20.33 per cent.

The combination of competitive costs, strong compliance, and sustainability credentials is helping Bangladesh win orders that previously went to China, states Rubel.

Industry experts say Bangladesh's growth is about more than just a diversion of orders. The country’s investments in green factories, worker safety, and social compliance over the past decade have made it an attractive sourcing hub for US and European retailers.

Global buyers are increasingly prioritizing sustainable supply chains, Bangladesh with its highest number of green factories is delivering on that front, Rubel affirms.

At the same time, Bangladesh’s ability to produce large volumes of basic apparel at competitive prices gives it an advantage. The small 1.11 per cent increase in unit prices suggests that buyers are still getting value for their money, while suppliers are enjoying slightly improved margins.