11/08/2025
In the global trade arena, Bangladesh's Ready-Made Garment (RMG) industry has been a dominant force for over 40 years. The industry's share of the nation's total exports has seen a significant increase, rising from just 3.89% in 1983-84 to more than 80% in recent years. This growth has established the RMG sector as the backbone of Bangladesh's export economy. However, a shift in market dynamics is becoming evident. While Bangladesh has expanded its export markets beyond the United States, the percentage of RMG exports to the U.S. has been declining. This is not due to a drop in demand from the U.S. but rather an increase in competition from other major exporters. Issue 3 of FETC highlights how market shares in U.S. RMG imports have shifted, with countries like China and Vietnam holding significant positions, and India surpassing Bangladesh in 2024 to capture a larger share of the market. This signifies a new competitive landscape where future success is tied to diversification and efficiency.
