Bangladesh faces potential $17.5 billion export risk after LDC graduation: Commerce Minister

Commerce Minister

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Bangladesh stands to lose preferential market access across multiple developed economies as it transitions out of the Least Developed Country (LDC) category — a shift that could put roughly $17.5 billion in export earnings at risk.

Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir, addressing parliament, warned that the move to developing country status will fundamentally reshape Bangladesh’s trade landscape. For decades, LDC-linked duty exemptions and trade concessions have been a cornerstone of the country’s export strategy, particularly for its dominant ready-made garment industry. Losing them without adequate replacement arrangements could leave exporters dangerously exposed.

The government says it is not waiting for graduation to act. Dhaka has already wrapped up negotiations on an Economic Partnership Agreement with Japan and is in active talks with South Korea on a broader Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. On a wider front, Bangladesh is pursuing trade deals with the European Union, the UAE, Singapore, Indonesia, China, and the RCEP bloc — a sweeping diplomatic push aimed at locking in market access before preferential treatment expires.

Yet the scale of the challenge should not be understated. Preferential trade facilities were not merely helpful — they were structural. They shaped investment decisions, supply chains, and the entire competitive logic of Bangladesh’s export sector. Negotiated agreements, even when successfully concluded, rarely replicate the breadth or simplicity of LDC benefits, and they take time to deliver results on the ground.

Beyond trade talks, Dhaka is also looking to attract fresh investment, broaden its export base, and deepen economic ties with key partners. The ambition is a managed, smooth graduation — one that protects growth rather than disrupts it.

Whether the government’s diplomacy can move fast enough, and deliver agreements substantive enough, to cushion the blow remains the central question Bangladesh must answer before its LDC status expires.

Bangladesh’s Garment Export Surpasses China in the European Union

Bangladesh's Garment Export Surpasses China in the European Union

The European Union (EU) is one of the largest global markets for garment exports, and in recent years, Bangladesh has emerged as a major player in the industry. According to recent data, Bangladesh has surpassed China in terms of garment exports to the EU, making it one of the leading suppliers of clothing to this region.

Many major international clothing brands source garments from Bangladesh for export to the European Union (EU). Some of the most well-known brands that are known to source from Bangladesh include H&M, Zara, Primark, C&A, and Tesco. Additionally, many smaller and local brands in the EU also import garments from Bangladesh. The exact brands that source from Bangladesh can vary, but the country is known for producing high-quality, cost-effective clothing that is popular with many global brands and retailers.

This growth in Bangladesh’s garment exports is attributed to several factors, including favorable government policies, investment in the sector, and the country’s strong labor force. Bangladesh has also been able to offer competitive prices to its customers, as the cost of labor and production is relatively low compared to other countries. In addition, the country has made significant investments in improving the quality and sustainability of its products, which has helped it to gain a competitive edge in the EU market.

Another factor that has contributed to Bangladesh’s success in the EU market is its focus on providing quality products that meet the needs and preferences of European consumers. The country’s garment manufacturers have invested heavily in research and development to ensure that they are able to produce products that meet the high standards demanded by EU consumers.

In addition to its focus on quality, Bangladesh has also been able to build strong relationships with its customers in the EU. This has helped to ensure that the country is able to meet the demands of its customers and to maintain its position as a leading supplier of clothing to the region.

Overall, Bangladesh’s success in the EU garment market is a testament to the country’s commitment to its industry and its ability to adapt to the changing needs of its customers. With continued investment and improvement, Bangladesh is well positioned to maintain its position as a leading supplier of clothing to the EU for years to come.