Russia’s largest fashion brand, Gloria Jeans, plans to source its 30% from Bangladesh with an annual turnover of $70 million by 2025. This is part of the company’s strategy to explore new sourcing destinations by reducing local garment production in Russia.
Recently, Moyeen Ahmed, Gloria Jeans’ regional general manager for Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan said this with an interview with The Business Standard.
He said, “Last year, we saw a significant increase in sourcing from Bangladesh. In 2025, we plan to expand our business by up to 30% compared to the outgoing year.”
He mentioned the company’s decision to exit Uzbekistan a year ago and hinted at plans to close 6-7 manufacturing units in Russia, with some orders expected to be redirected to key suppliers China and Vietnam, as well as Bangladesh.
The local office in Bangladesh produces a significant amount of denim fabric, which has increased its competitiveness. However, high tariffs on garment exports to Russia remain a significant challenge, making Bangladeshi products less competitive in price compared to Vietnam, he said.
“If Bangladesh successfully negotiates the removal of these tariffs, it could emerge as the largest supplier to Russia, which has immense potential for garment exports,” he added.
Six Bangladeshi suppliers currently supply about a third of Russia’s denim imports, with ABA Group and Square Group leading the way as the top exporters.
In addition to denim, Gloria Jeans sources jersey knitwear and sweaters from Bangladesh. The company is also producing outerwear with Text Town Group, aiming to bring in new orders next season.
Currently, 26 garment factories in Bangladesh make Gloria Jeans clothing. When Moyeen joined the company in 2015, its annual sourcing from Bangladesh was worth $5 million. By 2018, this had increased to $80 million.
In 2023, Gloria Jeans sourced 13 million pieces from Bangladesh, with a 15% increase projected for this year – a number that could increase further with the tariff waivers.
