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DHAKA, Sept 01, 2026 (BSS): Bangladesh’s merchandise exports rose 13.14 percent year-on-year to $4.43 billion in August 2026, compared with $3.92 billion in the same month last year, according to export data.

During July-August of the current fiscal year (FY2026-27), exports increased by 5.43 percent to $9.16 billion from $8.69 billion in the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year.

The Ready-Made Garments (RMG) sector remained the key driver of export growth, with apparel shipments rising 13.92 percent year-on-year to $3.89 billion in August. RMG exports during July-August also grew 5.12 percent to $7.50 billion.

Both major apparel segments recorded significant growth in August. Knitwear exports increased by 14.88 percent, while woven garment exports rose by 12.70 percent. During the first two months of FY2026-27, knitwear exports grew 6.17 percent and woven garments 3.81 percent.

Several non-RMG sectors also posted strong growth, indicating further progress in export diversification.

Jute and jute goods exports increased 37.09 percent in August, while pharmaceuticals rose to 28.52 percent, leather and leather goods 24.85 percent, printed materials 24.83 percent, engineering products 23.88 percent and other footwear 15.29 percent.

In cumulative terms, printed materials recorded the highest growth among the major non-RMG sectors at 41.89 percent, followed by pharmaceuticals at 38.94 percent, other footwear at 27.32 percent and jute and jute goods at 22.26 percent.

The United States, Bangladesh’s largest export destination, registered 26.09 percent growth in August, while exports to the market increased 11.90 percent during July-August.

The United Kingdom regained its position as the second-largest export market, followed by Germany, Spain and the Netherlands.

Among emerging markets, Bangladesh’s exports to Türkiye surged 141.03 percent in August, while shipments to the Republic of Korea and Saudi Arabia increased by 42.37 percent and 42.09 percent respectively.

Export growth was supported by stronger demand in major markets, increased buyer confidence in Bangladesh as a reliable sourcing destination, expansion of production capacity and rising shipments of higher-value-added products.

The continued growth of both knitwear and woven garments, alongside strong performances by pharmaceuticals, leather goods, jute products, engineering products and footwear, demonstrates the growing competitiveness and resilience of Bangladesh’s export sector amid a challenging global trade environment.