Bangladesh's biggest annual apparel show BATEXPO has recorded its lowest attendance of foreign buyers since 1998, causing concern among exporters over the future of the sector.

Out of a total of 2,650 buyers, just 68 were from overseas - those being predominantly from the US, Canada, France, Hong Kong and Thailand.

Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association president Annisul Haq said exact figures were not yet available but, despite the relatively poor turnout, exhibitors had reported import deals worth a total of $68.80.