Dhaka, Aug. 15 -- Bangladesh's garment exports to the European Union (EU) experienced a sharp 16.43 percent decline in the first half (H1) of 2026, falling to €8.64 billion amid an overall market contraction in European apparel imports.

The downturn in Bangladeshi shipments was driven by both reduced shipment volumes-which fell 8.22 percent-and lower average prices, which dropped 8.94 percent during the January-June period.

Despite the weak half-yearly performance, Bangladesh recorded a slight recovery in June alone, with exports to the EU edging up 0.87 percent to €1.37 billion. The monthly gain was supported by a 6.53 percent increase in shipment volumes, which helped offset a 5.31 percent drop in prices.

Overall EU appar...