Exports see 11.44% YoY growth, hit $4.25b in March

Exports grew 11.44% to $4.25 billion in March this fiscal year compared to the same month last year, according to data from the National Board of Revenue (NBR).

During the first nine months of the Fiscal Year 2024-25 (July–March), Bangladesh's export sector demonstrated a commendable performance, achieving a total export earnings of $37.19 billion, which reflects a 10.63% growth compared to $33.61 billion recorded during the same period of the previous fiscal year.

In March 2025 alone, the country posted export earnings of $4.25 billion, marking a year-on-year growth of 11.44% compared to $3.81 billion in March 2024.

Talking to The Business Standard, former Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) director Ashikur Rahman Tuhin said that due to the Eid vacation, some goods were shipped in advance during March, which is reflected in the current apparel export growth.

He also mentioned that, during March and April, they usually send the final consignments for the summer season.

The apparel leader expressed frustration over the future growth of the sector due to the sudden tariff increases by the Trump administration.

He said, "Everyone, including buyers and suppliers, is waiting for clarification on the total impact of the tariffs on their imports."

Tuhin added, "If any buyer asks for discounts or other forms of cost-sharing at this moment, it would be a violation of the contract. This is not a natural calamity or disaster. Any such one-sided decision would also be unethical."

However, the Ready-Made Garments (RMG) sector, traditionally the cornerstone of Bangladesh's export basket, retained its leading position.

The RMG exports during July–March FY 2024-25 reached $30.25 billion, reflecting a 10.84% growth over the corresponding period last year.

For the month of March alone, RMG exports witnessed a 12.40% year-on-year growth, rising to $3.45 billion from $3.07 billion, according to NBR data.