From January to June 2025, the United States witnessed a modest rise in global apparel imports, totaling $38.16 billion—an increase of 6.74% compared to the same period in 2024. This growth was driven by a 4.26% increase in square meter equivalent (SME) volume and a 2.37% rise in the average unit price.
Among the most notable trends, Bangladesh emerged as a standout performer, with apparel exports to the US reaching $4.25 billion during the six-month period—marking a significant 25.12% year-on-year increase. Monthly data shows that Bangladesh exported $547.42 million worth of apparel in May, which jumped to $723.08 million by June 25, reflecting a robust month-over-month growth of 32.09%, according to Mohiuddin Rubel, former director of Brand BGMEA.
While Bangladesh's share surged, China experienced a sharp decline of 16.07% in apparel exports to the US during the same period. In contrast, several other Asian exporters posted double-digit growth, including:
India, up by 16.26%
Pakistan, up by 11.21%
Indonesia, up by 17.95%
Cambodia, up by 24.28%
Vietnam, up by 17.96%
Looking at the number of pieces exported, Bangladesh recorded a strong 23.81% increase. Cambodia led the growth in volume with a 31.11% rise, followed by Vietnam (13.82%), India (15.92%), and Pakistan (15.76%). China, on the other hand, saw a 12.78% decline in units exported.
Unit prices showed mixed trends across sourcing countries. Bangladesh’s average unit price increased by 1.06%, Vietnam’s rose by 3.64%, and India’s edged up by 0.29%. However, China and Cambodia saw declines of 3.77% and 5.21%, respectively.
The data underscores a shift in sourcing dynamics, with US buyers increasingly turning to South and Southeast Asian countries like Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Cambodia, while reducing reliance on Chinese apparel.
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