Bangladesh has become a significant player in the global export market, with its economy heavily reliant on international trade. This article will explore the 10 largest exports of Bangladesh, highlighting key statistics and the impact of these industries on the country’s economy.
1. Readymade Garments
Readymade garments are by far the most important export for Bangladesh. This industry has transformed the country’s economy and employment landscape.
Key facts about Bangladesh’s readymade garments exports:
- They account for about 46.74% of all exports from Bangladesh
- In 2023-24, readymade garment exports reached $27.95 billion
- Major foreign markets include the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and France
- Knitwear products saw a remarkable rise of 36.88% to $23.2 billion
- Woven garments increased by 33.82% to $19.4 billion
The success of the readymade garments industry has had a huge impact on Bangladesh’s economic growth. It has created many jobs, especially for women, and helped reduce poverty in the country.
2. Jute and Jute Products
Jute, often called the “golden fiber,” is Bangladesh’s second-largest export. The country has a long history of jute cultivation and manufacturing.
Important information about jute exports:
- They make up about 13.6% of Bangladesh’s total exports
- In 2023-24, jute and jute product exports reached $7.59 billion
- Bangladesh produces 7 to 8 million bales of raw jute each year
- The country exports 0.6 to 0.8 million bales of raw jute annually
- Main buyers of Bangladesh’s raw jute are China, India, and Pakistan
- In 2021-22, raw jute exports earned 6.59 billion Bangladeshi Taka
Jute is an eco-friendly fiber, and its popularity is growing worldwide as people look for sustainable alternatives to plastic.
3. Footwear
The footwear industry in Bangladesh is growing rapidly and becoming an important part of the country’s exports.
Key points about footwear exports:
- They account for about 2.5% of Bangladesh’s total export earnings
- In 2023-24, footwear exports reached $1.4 billion
- Main export destinations include the Netherlands, India, South Korea, France, and Spain
The footwear industry is creating many job opportunities and helping to diversify Bangladesh’s export base.
4. Miscellaneous Textiles
Miscellaneous textiles include a variety of products beyond readymade garments, such as home textiles and specialized fabrics.
Important facts about miscellaneous textile exports:
- They make up about 2.1% of Bangladesh’s total exports
- In 2023-24, miscellaneous textile exports reached $1.2 billion
- Products include curtains, sacks, bags, tarpaulins, blankets, and rope
- Major export markets are the US, Europe, Japan, Australia, and Canada
This sector shows the versatility of Bangladesh’s textile industry and its ability to produce a wide range of products.
5. Headgear and Caps
Headgear and caps have become a significant export category for Bangladesh, showing the country’s ability to specialize in specific clothing items.
Key information about headgear and cap exports:
- They account for about 1.2% of Bangladesh’s total export earnings
- In 2023-24, headgear and cap exports reached $639.1 million
- Main export destinations are the United States, Germany, France, Poland, and Canada
This industry demonstrates Bangladesh’s capacity to meet global demand for specific fashion accessories.
6. Paper Yarn and Woven Fabric
Paper yarn and woven fabric exports showcase Bangladesh’s innovation in textile production.
Important points about paper yarn and woven fabric exports:
- They make up about 1.2% of Bangladesh’s total exports
- In 2023-24, these exports reached $634.3 million
- Paper yarn is used in making artisan jewelry due to its strength and light weight
- Major export destinations include China, India, Thailand, and South Korea
This sector highlights Bangladesh’s ability to adapt to new market demands and create unique textile products.
7. Leather and Animal Gut Articles
The leather industry in Bangladesh has been growing, benefiting from the country’s livestock resources.
Key facts about leather and animal gut article exports:
- They account for about 1% of Bangladesh’s total exports
- In 2023-24, these exports reached $544.3 million
- The industry benefits from low-cost raw materials and labor
- Main export destinations are European countries like Germany, Poland, and Spain
The leather industry is helping to diversify Bangladesh’s export base beyond textiles.
8. Fish, Shrimps, and Prawns
Bangladesh’s aquaculture industry, particularly shrimp and prawn farming, has become an important export sector.
Important information about fish, shrimp, and prawn exports:
- They make up about 0.7% of Bangladesh’s total exports
- In 2023-24, these exports reached $406.3 million
- Prawns (bagda) are crucial for export income and local prosperity
- Major export markets include the European Union, Japan, and the USA
This industry takes advantage of Bangladesh’s extensive coastline and inland water resources.
9. Feathers, Artificial Flowers, and Hair
This diverse category shows Bangladesh’s ability to produce a variety of decorative and fashion-related items.
Key points about these exports:
- They account for about 0.4% of Bangladesh’s total exports
- In 2023-24, these exports reached $225 million
- Main export destinations are Germany, Sweden, and India
This sector demonstrates Bangladesh’s capacity to produce specialized items for global markets.
10. Aircraft and Spacecraft
Perhaps surprisingly, Bangladesh has developed a small but growing aerospace industry.
Important facts about aircraft and spacecraft exports:
- They make up about 0.3% of Bangladesh’s total exports
- In 2023-24, these exports reached $173 million
- Products include parts for helicopters, airplanes, satellites, and spacecraft
- Major export destinations are the Netherlands, United Kingdom, and Czechia
This emerging sector shows Bangladesh’s potential to enter high-tech industries.