Apparel unit prices from Bangladesh declined by 3.84% in 2025 in its largest export market, the European Union, reflecting subdued consumer demand and intensifying competition from major exporters such as China and India.
According to data from Eurostat, analysed by the Bangladesh Apparel Exchange, total EU apparel imports increased by 2.10% to €90 billion in 2025. The growth was driven primarily by a 13.78% rise in import volumes, while average unit prices dropped sharply by 10.27%.
Bangladesh’s apparel exports to the EU rose 6% year-on-year to €19.41 billion, up from €18.32 billion in 2024. However, export volumes grew faster than export value, resulting in a 3.84% fall in average unit prices. In December alone, unit prices declined 12% compared to the same month a year earlier.
Industry leaders attribute the pricing pressure partly to shifting global trade flows. Higher US tariffs have reduced shipments to the American market, prompting exporters — particularly China — to redirect more products to Europe, intensifying competition and driving down prices.
China’s apparel exports to the EU increased 1.17% to €26.58 billion, despite a 9.38% decline in unit prices. Meanwhile, analysts warn that pricing pressure may persist over the medium term as India and Vietnam gain zero-tariff access under EU free trade agreements.
Notably, Vietnam was the only major exporter to record both value and price growth, with exports rising 10% alongside a 4.51% increase in unit prices.
Europe remains Bangladesh’s largest apparel market, accounting for nearly half of its total garment exports. In FY2024–25, Bangladesh exported approximately $40 billion worth of ready-made garments globally.
