Despite domestic industrial challenges and global economic uncertainties Bangladesh has successfully held onto its position as the world’s second-largest ready-made garment (RMG) exporter.
According to the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) World Trade Statistical Review 2025 Bangladesh exported $38.82 billion worth of garments last year. China maintained its dominant first place, while Vietnam followed closely in third.
India and Turkey ranked fourth and fifth respectively. While retaining its rank is a positive milestone the WTO data reveals a looming threat. Bangladesh’s RMG export growth nearly flatlined at just 0.89%. In contrast its closest competitor, Vietnam, surged by 10.53% to reach $37.51 billion.
The export gap between the two nations has now dangerously narrowed to just $1.31 billion. Economist Mahfuz Kabir warned that Vietnam along with India, Pakistan, and Cambodia is rapidly gaining ground. To survive this fierce global competition and secure its standing analysts urge Bangladesh to shift beyond traditional labor-intensive manufacturing.
Investing in automation upskilling workers and adopting modern tech-driven production systems are now critical necessities to sustain the industry's future.
