The European Union's apparel imports witnessed a steady growth of 1.53% in 2024, with total import value rising from $91.17 billion in 2023 to $92.57 billion. This upward trend reflects the resilience of the global apparel market, though key dynamics among suppliers indicate a shifting landscape.

Bangladesh, a major player in the EU apparel sector, achieved a 4.86% growth, with exports climbing from $18.86 billion to $19.77 billion. Despite this positive momentum, other competitors, including Cambodia (20.73%) and Pakistan (12.41%), recorded significantly higher growth rates. Meanwhile, China, the EU’s top supplier, increased exports by 2.61%, solidifying its dominance with a 28.12% market share. Vietnam and India posted moderate growth of 4.21% and 1.97%, respectively, while Turkey experienced a decline of 6.64%.

In terms of volume, the EU’s global apparel import surged by 8.98%, with Bangladesh outperforming at 10.18%. However, China led with a 12.05% increase, maintaining its stronghold. The concern for Bangladesh arises in unit pricing, which dropped by 4.84%, mirroring a broader 6.83% decline in the EU’s global apparel pricing. China’s aggressive pricing strategy, with an 8.43% price cut, contributed significantly to this downward pressure, while Vietnam and Cambodia also slashed prices.

Bangladesh's share in EU’s apparel imports grew from 20.69% in 2023 to 21.37% in 2024, reinforcing its stronghold. However, to sustain growth, Bangladesh must focus on value addition, operational efficiency, and diversified markets. With shifting global trade dynamics, the country has an opportunity to leverage geopolitical shifts and strengthen backward linkages, ensuring long-term competitiveness in the evolving EU apparel market.