RMG exports to non-traditional markets reach record $642.93m

In August of the current FY27, Bangladesh’s readymade garment (RMG) exports to non-traditional markets hit a record $642.93 million—the highest single-month total for this sector.

Japan emerged as the top destination among these markets, importing $118.67 million worth of RMG items during the month.

Non-traditional markets—including Japan, Australia, India, Russia, and Mexico—are gaining increased strategic importance.

Although exports to these destinations saw limited progress over the past two years, the trend has shifted significantly in the current fiscal year.

According to data from the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), average monthly RMG exports to non-traditional markets stood at $574.38 million in FY26.

In the first two months of the current fiscal year, that average rose to $611.60 million.

Along with the total volume, the share of non-traditional markets in Bangladesh's overall RMG exports has also expanded.

In FY26, non-traditional destinations accounted for 15.93% of total RMG exports.

In the current fiscal year, that share has climbed to 16.32%.

Overall, Bangladesh exported $3,608.89 million worth of readymade garments in August, with $642.93 million originating from non-traditional markets.

Mohiuddin Rubel, CEO of Bangladesh Apparel Voice, told BSS: "There is immense potential to expand Bangladesh's RMG exports in non-traditional markets. These markets did not receive sufficient focus in the past, but now is the time to prioritize them and capitalize on the opportunity."

He added: "Non-traditional markets are not limited to high-end apparel alone. There is strong demand across various garment categories in these countries, representing market opportunities worth hundreds of billions of dollars. Therefore, to reduce reliance on traditional markets and boost overall exports, we must strategically focus on non-traditional destinations."

RMG Exports to Non-Traditional Markets (August FY27)