Dhaka, Jan. 9 -- Bangladesh's readymade garment (RMG) exports to non-traditional markets posted negative growth in the first half of the current fiscal year, reflecting prolonged weakness in global demand amid economic uncertainty across key economies.

Rising living costs, sluggish growth, shifting trade regimes and geopolitical tensions have continued to dampen consumer spending on apparel worldwide, industry insiders said.

Official figures show that shipments to newer destinations fell year-on-year during July-December of FY2025-26, underscoring the challenges exporters face in diversifying beyond traditional markets at a time of heightened global volatility.

Exports to non-traditional markets like Japan, Australia, India, Korea, Mex...