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Bangladesh’s exports to 11 South American markets reached $195.17 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2026-27, as the government stepped up efforts to diversify export destinations and promote non-traditional products.
According to Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) data, exports to the region totalled $195.17 million during July-September, with Brazil, Chile and Peru emerging as the three largest destinations.
Brazil topped the list with exports worth $70.82 million, followed by Chile at $51.87 million and Peru at $24.24 million. Exports to Colombia amounted to $18.05 million, while Uruguay and Argentina accounted for $11.63 million and $10.28 million, respectively.
The figures highlight South America’s potential as a market for Bangladeshi products beyond traditional destinations in Europe and North America.
However, the export basket remains heavily concentrated in readymade garments (RMG). EPB product-wise data show that woven apparel and clothing accessories generated around $84.53 million during the quarter, while knitted or crocheted apparel contributed approximately $70.10 million.
Combined exports from the two categories amounted to $154.63 million, accounting for nearly 79.2 per cent of total exports to the 11 markets.
Pharmaceutical products generated around $6.58 million, while footwear and related products contributed approximately $5.71 million. Other textile products, leather goods and travel articles also featured in the export basket, indicating scope for further diversification.
Brazil fair highlights non-traditional products
Bangladesh’s participation in Home Show Brazil 2026 in São Paulo highlighted opportunities to expand exports of jute goods, leather products, home décor, handicrafts and other lifestyle products.
The exhibition, held from August 11 to 13 at Distrito Anhembi in São Paulo, was supported financially by the EPB and organised under the management of the Bangladesh Embassy in Brasília.
Four Bangladeshi companies — Jihan Plastic Industries, Mother Tannery, Rainbow Jute and Classical Handmade Products — showcased their products at five booths.
Their displays included jute goods, bags, leather products, natural-fibre baskets, home décor items, bamboo products, terracotta and clay products, and Nakshi Kantha.
The EPB and the Bangladesh Embassy also operated a promotional booth featuring information about Bangladesh’s exportable products and major export sectors.
Business-to-business meetings were held during the exhibition, with prospective buyers visiting the Bangladeshi stalls and expressing interest in the products on display.
A seminar on the production and export of home and lifestyle products from Bangladesh was also organised to promote local products among Brazilian business organisations and international buyers.
The participation offered Bangladeshi companies an opportunity to showcase their products, establish commercial contacts and explore potential business deals in the Brazilian market.
EPB Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Mohammad Hasan Arif said the bureau was working to diversify the country’s export basket and strengthen its presence in emerging markets through more strategic participation in international trade fairs.
He said excessive dependence on readymade garments and a limited number of export destinations could expose Bangladesh’s export earnings to external shocks, making product diversification and market expansion increasingly important.
Arif stressed the need for exporters to conduct market research before participating in international exhibitions, including assessments of demand, consumer preferences, pricing, competition and local business practices.
He also emphasised stronger national pavilion branding, improved exporter preparedness and direct engagement with international buyers to turn trade-fair participation into sustainable business opportunities.
Scope for wider market expansion
Brazil and Chile together accounted for $122.69 million, or nearly 62.9 per cent, of Bangladesh’s exports to the 11 South American markets during July-September.
Their dominant share makes the two countries key targets for focused export promotion, while Peru and Colombia also offer opportunities for deeper commercial engagement.
Expanding sales of pharmaceuticals, footwear, leather goods, jute products and home furnishings could help Bangladesh reduce its reliance on apparel and broaden its presence in the region.
The EPB’s efforts to promote non-traditional products through international exhibitions are part of a broader push to diversify both export destinations and the range of goods sold abroad.