Bangladesh’s exports to the Netherlands have surged by over 92% in the past five fiscal years, largely driven by strong performance in the apparel sector.
According to data from the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), export earnings rose from $1.27 billion in FY2020–21 to $2.35 billion in FY2024–25. The ready-made garment (RMG) sector accounted for the majority of this growth, with exports reaching $2.08 billion, up 21.21% from the previous year’s $1.72 billion.
Within the apparel category, knitwear exports climbed 31.69% to $1.21 billion, compared to $926 million a year earlier, while woven garments grew 9.04% to $879 million, from $797 million in FY2023–24. Beyond RMG, other key export items included textiles and used clothing worth $50 million, footwear and related products earning $96.75 million, and headgear contributing $7.35 million, according to EPB data.
Exporters and analysts attribute this steady growth to enhanced product quality, improved supply chain management, sustainable production, timely delivery, and greater product diversification.
Industry experts emphasized that to maintain the current growth momentum, Bangladesh needs to focus on high-value sectors such as pharmaceuticals, ICT services, and processed food exports.
Experts also highlighted that to expand its market in the Netherlands, Bangladesh must reduce dependence on garments and explore potential in the leather industry, ensuring compliance with international environmental and labor standards.
According to the Bangladesh Bank, the Netherlands invested about $303 million in 2022, representing 8.7% of Bangladesh’s total foreign direct investment. Additionally, a new tax treaty between the two nations now allows Bangladesh to impose a 10% withholding tax on technology and service payments from the Netherlands.
