The government of Bangladesh has set an export earnings target of $63.4 billion for the current fiscal year (FY2026-27), aiming for a 15% growth in both goods and services. Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir announced this target at a press briefing at the Ministry of Commerce. Of the total target, $55.2 billion is expected from merchandise exports, while $8.2 billion is projected from services exports. The minister expressed optimism about regaining momentum this year, citing policy stability under the newly elected government and business-friendly measures in the national budget.
The government aims to reduce dependence on the ready-made garment (RMG) sector, which currently contributes around 85% of total export earnings. Priority sectors for export expansion include leather and leather products, shipbuilding and ship recycling, light engineering, and information technology (IT). Negotiations on Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with South Korea and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are nearing completion, and Bangladesh plans to conclude trade negotiations with four to five more countries by December.
The Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with Japan will be placed before the next session of parliament for enforcement, and the European Union has shown interest in initiating FTA negotiations with Bangladesh. Despite global economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, the minister expressed confidence that improved business conditions, expanded trade agreements, and increased investment would help Bangladesh achieve its export target and sustain higher export growth.
Energy shortages remain a major challenge for the export sector. The government is working to install two additional Floating Storage Regasification Units (FSRUs) to boost LNG imports and improve energy availability for industries. With the resolution of uncertainties over Bangladesh's graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category, exporters will continue to enjoy existing market access facilities for the next three years.
