RMG
Bangladesh garment sector a model workplace for others: BGMEA chief
Faruque Hassan, president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), said the ready-made garment industry of Bangladesh is a shining example of workplace safety in the world, serving as a model for others to follow.
During his address at the opening ceremony of the 9th International Fire Safety and Security Expo-2024, he also remarked that the paradigm shift in workplace safety within Bangladesh’s garment sector has gained international recognition.
Today Bangladesh’s RMG sector has only positioned itself as a model for workplace safety but also emerged as a leader in environmental sustainability, he further said.
Bangladesh proudly boasts the highest number of green garment factories globally, with 207 factories certified as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) by the US Green Building Council (USGBC).
Salman F Rahman, Private Industry and Investment Adviser to the Prime Minister, attended the event as a chief guest.
Bond licences, customs policy need review for sustainable RMG: Speakers
Speakers at a seminar and book launching programme emphasised customs, bond license policy review along with the labour force recruitment issues for sustainable development in the readymade garment sector of Bangladesh.
They were speaking at a seminar on ‘RMG Contemporary Issue and Book Launching’, held at ERF Auditorium in the capital on Saturday.
Speaking regarding the book ‘Bangladesh RMG and Sustainable Development’ author Dr Mohammad Hsan said that only because of the bond licence the garment sector may face challenges whereas the bond licences helped growing of the garment sector.
There are 4186 bond licences stopped and some new 1500 bond licences were issued this time. This issue needs to be reviewed considering the changing times, he pointed out.
He mentioned, “Some bureaucratic restrictions might be barriers to the garment sector development, and these issues should be discussed at the policy level. We cannot bring back any export cargo because of bureaucracy problems.”
The president of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) Faruque Hassan, also the chief guest in the event, said that Bangladesh’s garment sector reached a position with the help time befitting policy.
But now some policy is needed to review for sustainable growth of the sector and bring product diversification here, he pointed out.
He also said Bangladesh has to focus on high value RMG production along with regular items to reach the $100 billion RMG export target.
Faruque said that Bangladesh garment industry reached the second top position in the world, but there are many challenges in the global arena, so product innovation is to be a priority to face the competitors.
He also focused on uninterrupted gas and electricity supply in the garment sector as it is very essential for quality and timely production.
Mohammad Hatem, executive president of BKMEA, Abdullah Hil Rakib, Director of BGMEA, Professor Akhter Hussain of DU, Ferdaus Ara Begum, CEO of BUILD, Mayeesha Mahmud, Director, Cotton Group, Ilahi Dad Khan, ex-Bureaucrate, among others, spoke in the event. Mohammad Refayet Ullah Mirdha, president of ERF moderated the programme.
First panel introduction meeting of Sammilito Parishad held ahead of BGMEA election
The candidates of Sammilito Parishad for the upcoming BGMEA elections were formally introduced at the first panel introduction meeting held on Thursday at Hotel Radisson Blu in Dhaka.
The election to the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) for the 2024-2026 term will be held on March 9 this year.
Sammilito Parishad is participating in the BGMEA election with the slogan ‘Sammilito Parishad for Building Sustainable Garment Industry.’ Owners of garment industries from Dhaka and Chattogram regions were present at the event.
13 exhibitors from Bangladesh participate in Texworld Apparel Sourcing in France
The panel introduction programme was presided over by Tipu Munshi MP, former Commerce Minister, and President of Sammilito Parishad.
At the event, Md. Atiqul Islam, General Secretary of Sammilito Parishad, and Mayor of Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC), introduced the panel members of Sammilito Parishad, including the Panel Leader and Senior Vice President of BGMEA, S. M. Mannan Kochi, who is also the Chairman of Seha Design (BD) Ltd.
Tipu Munshi MP, former Commerce Minister, and President of Sammilito Parishad, along with Md. Atiqul Islam, General Secretary of Sammilito Parishad and Mayor of Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC), Md. Siddiqur Rahman, former President of BGMEA, Chief Election Coordinator of Sammilito Parishad for the BGMEA Election 2024-2026, and Industries and Trade Affairs Secretary of the Awami League, and former Presidents of BGMEA Abdus Salam Murshedy MP, and S.M. Fazlul Hoque along with other industry leaders, spoke at the panel introduction program.
Indonesian Ambassador and BGMEA President discuss bilateral trade opportunities
In their speeches, the leaders highlighted the glorious history, contributions, achievements, and future prospects of the Sammilito Parishad.
They mentioned the significant contributions of S. M. Mannan (Kochi) to the development of the ready-made garment industry while mentioning his leadership qualities. The leaders also highlighted the important roles played by other candidates of the Sammilito Parishad panel in the development of the RMG industry.
They also mentioned that crucial government policy decisions for the RMG industry’s development were made during the tenures of BGMEA Boards led by Sammilito Parishad. During these tenures, the Presidents along with former Presidents successfully dealt with the challenges of the industry through engagement with the highest level of the government.
Alongside,they expressed firm belief that Sammilito Parishad, if elected, would continue the legacy of success.
Innovation policy unveiled to overcome global challenges for textile and apparel industry
S. M. Mannan (Kochi) said, "We have formed a panel comprising experienced and young leaders with the aim of ensuring sustainable development of the garment industry. If we win the election, we will all work together.”
At the event, the leaders urged the BGMEA members to vote to elect the full panel of the Sammilito Parishad in the upcoming BGMEA election.
13 exhibitors from Bangladesh participate in Texworld Apparel Sourcing in France
Thirteen exhibitors from Bangladesh have participated in the Texworld Apparel Sourcing at the Porte de Versailles Exhibition Centre in Paris, France.
More than 1,280 exhibitors from 28 countries participated at the event that ended on Wednesday, according to a press release.
RMG export up by 3.45% in July-January of FY 2023-24
Bangladeshi exhibitors displayed the global range of fashion products along with major manufacturing countries including Pakistan, China, India, Indonesia, Korea, Turkey, and Taiwan, it said.
The Denim Village at the event offered raw materials and finished products from Bangladesh, China, India, and Pakistan.
BGMEA requests Singapore port authority for faster, seamless transshipment of Bangladeshi RMG goods
Among the 13 Bangladeshi companies, Asia Links Design and Sara Fashionwear represented clothing fashion; in the denim segment, products were on display from Aaron Denim, Argon Denim, NZ Denim, and Pioneer Denim, the release said.
"We are very satisfied with the fair; it was well organised, and the turnout was great. We participated in this fair for the first time and got buyers from many European countries; hopefully we will have a fruitful business with them,” said Ahasan Habib Rabi, deputy manager (Research & Development) of Amanat Shah Fabric.
Danish Ambassador discusses collaboration opportunities in RMG sector with BGMEA chief
"TAD Group is one of the largest apparel sourcing and manufacturing companies in Bangladesh. We are exhibiting again at Texworld and sourcing apparel in Paris. We are very happy with the crowd this year; we are very busy with customer inquiries from all over the world. We hope this fair will benefit the Bangladeshi garment companies exhibiting this year,” said Hadayet Ullah Mahmud, Head of Design and Product Development at TAD Group.
Indonesian Ambassador and BGMEA President discuss bilateral trade opportunities
Ambassador of Indonesia to Bangladesh Heru Hartanto Subolo paid a courtesy call on Faruque Hassan, President of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) February 6.
The meeting focused on fostering collaboration and enhancing bilateral trade relations between the two countries, with a particular emphasis on the apparel and textile sector.
Discussions also included various trade-related issues, with both parties expressing a strong interest in identifying new avenues for collaboration to unlock the full potential of mutual trade and investment.
BGMEA President Faruque Hassan apprised the envoy of Bangladesh’s increased emphasis on diversification of garments, particularly in the production of high-value apparels using man-made fibers.
Bangladesh can import man-made fiber, yarn from Indonesia, he said.
Faruque Hassan urged Ambassador Heru Hartanto Subolo to encourage Indonesian businesses to invest in the man-made textile sector in Bangladesh, emphasizing the potential for a mutually beneficial partnership, said a media release.
He pointed to the industry’s interest in increasing apparel exports to Indonesia and sought cooperation of the ambassador.
Faruque Hassan also requested the Ambassador for his support in establishing collaboration between BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology (BUFT) and Indonesian fashion institutes.
The aim is to enhance the knowledge and skills of BUFT students in areas such as fashion design, product development, technologies, and other relevant fields.
Innovation policy unveiled to overcome global challenges for textile and apparel industry
The Textile Today Innovation Hub (TTIH) highlighted innovation and product variation that would help the industry survives the competitive global market.
The TTIH presents a complete manual that is being used in implementing innovation projects at an event held on Thursday in Dhaka, said a press release.
Bangladesh's textile and readymade garments (RMG) industry is now facing many challenges due to increased labour costs, heightened competition from low-cost nations, higher production costs, gas and power crises, global inflation, and worldwide geo-political conflicts.
In this regard, TTIH has been working for a long time to implement innovativeness in Bangladesh's textile and apparel industry.
TTIH has revealed ‘Manual for Implementation of Innovation Projects’ (MIIP) at the Innovation Conference 2024 jointly organis*ed by Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA), Yorkers Trade and Marketing Service Co. and Textile Today Innovation Hub and at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) alongside with the 18th Dhaka International Textile and Garment Machinery Exhibition (DTG).
MIIP is a complete guide to implementing an innovation project in a factory and institution from scratch. It guides step by step to build a team, make the team capable of finding innovation scopes, conduct innovation projects, troubleshoot the problems, make the innovation project successful and replicate or scale up the innovation, and finally create an innovative culture in the factory.
In the opening session of the Innovation Conference 2024 Mohammad Ali Khokon, President, BTMA was present as Chief Guest, where Mohammad Hatem, Executive President, BKMEA; Engineer Md. Shafiqur Rahman, President, ITET; Shahidullah Azim, Vice President, BGMEA; Professor Dr Ayub Nabi Khan, Pro-Vice Chancellor, BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology were present as special guests. Tareq Amin, Founder & CEO, of Textile Today Innovation Hub shared the keynote speech.
Innovation Conference 2024 discussed the challenges and benefits of implementing Innovation Projects. Textile Today has been functioning as an Innovation Hub since 2018. It empowers factories through its "Practically Tested Innovation Model."
This systematic approach guides factories to ideate, plan, and execute innovative projects called ‘Innovation Circle,’ to find high-impact areas with support, training, workshops, and expert guidance. This fosters a culture of continuous innovation.
A strategic panel discussion was held on ‘Implementing Innovations & Its method where panel speakers were Engr. Razeeb Haider, Director, BTM and MD, Outpace Spinning Mills Ltd.; Dr. Hasib Uddin, Chairman, APS Group; Taufique Anowar, Director (Merchandising), Centro Tex Ltd.; Syed Mohammad Ismail, Country Director, Archroma Bangladesh Lt.; Md. Amanur Rahman, Managing Director, Dysin Group; Engr. Shamim Rahman, Director, South West Composite Ltd.
BGMEA chief seeks High Commission’s support to seize trade opportunities in Singapore
Faruque Hassan, president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has sought support of the Bangladesh High Commission in Singapore to promote bilateral trade and investment.
During a recent meeting with the Bangladesh High Commissioner to Singapore Md Tauhedul Islam, he emphasized on the significant trade and investment prospects between Bangladesh and Singapore.
Asif Ashraf, director of BGMEA, Azfar Hassan, director of Giant Group, and Sanjay Kumar Naha, director of Rose Intimates Ltd were also present at the meeting held on Thursday (February 1).
The meeting was also attended by Ms. Luthfun Nahar, Commercial Counsellor, S M Abdullah Al Mamun, Counsellor, and Md. Oashimul Bari, Counsellor and Head of Chancery at the High Commission.
During the meeting, Faruque Hassan provided insights into the current state of Bangladesh's garment industry, its future potential and vision, particularly into exploring new and promising markets for RMG exports.
He stressed the importance of diversifying both markets and products as a key strategy to maintain sustainable growth of the RMG industry.
He expressed optimism that the Bangladesh High Commission would continue its diplomatic efforts to identify trade opportunities for Bangladesh in the Singaporean market.
Faruque Hassan urged the envoy to position Bangladesh as a promising investment destination for Singaporean investors, with special emphasis on sectors such as textile machinery, man-made fiber and technical textiles, recycling industry, light engineering, and shipbuilding.
Furthermore, the BGMEA president highlighted the need to broaden exports, including agricultural products, in addition to garments.
He also thanked to the High Commissioner and embassy officials for their warm hospitality and cooperation in facilitating important meetings with Singaporean government representatives and trade associations.
Dhaka int'l textile, garment machinery expo begins at ICCB
The 18th Dhaka International Textile and Garment Machinery Exhibition (DTG), began on Thursday at International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) Dhaka.
The expo will continue till February 4.
"Khadi Fest 2024" begins in Dhaka showcasing its immense potential in shaping future of textile industry
Asia Pacific Rayon (APR), a leading global viscose staple fibre (VSF), has been showcasing its sustainable fibre solutions to boost Bangladesh's thriving textile sector.
This is APR’s second consecutive appearance at DTG, signalling its commitment to Bangladesh’s thriving textile industry and the growing demand for sustainable fashion solutions.
Expo on garment, textile, and printing begins in Dhaka
"Bangladesh is a cornerstone of APR’s growth and a key market, says Tapan Sannigrahi, Vice President, Marketing and Downstream Development, Asia Pacific Rayon.
“In just five years, it has become APR's second-largest market outside Indonesia. We currently hold a 55% share in Bangladesh's viscose fibre market, and we are actively introducing Lyocell as a sustainable alternative,” he added.
Textile Talent Hunt 8.0 National Conference held in Dhaka
The textile sector is an important contributor to a growing Bangladesh economy. It ranks as the second-largest textile and garment exporter and is one of the fastest-growing economies in Asia.
APR is collaborating with leading textile companies in Bangladesh to support the industry’s development while promoting the adoption of viscose and Lyocell as sustainable alternatives.
“Viscose is becoming the fastest growing fibre used in Bangladesh’s textile industry, adds Sannigrahi. “With its easy-to-dye attributes, it helps manufacturers reduce energy and water consumption during garment production. Additionally, its full biodegradability underscores its environmental friendliness."
Headquartered in Jakarta, APR is a member of the Royal Golden Eagle (RGE) group of resource-based manufacturing companies. APR operates Asia Pacific Yarn (APY), a state-of-the-art, 7,800-tonne capacity downstream yarn spinning facility.
APR is dedicated to driving positive change in the textile industry by championing circularity and responsible manufacturing, aligning with the transition towards a more sustainable textile industry in Bangladesh and around the world.
APR officials said its high-quality VSF and yarn are sold to yarn spinners, fabric makers, and garment manufacturers across Indonesia and 16 markets, including Bangladesh, Turkey, Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam.
BGMEA requests Singapore port authority for faster, seamless transshipment of Bangladeshi RMG goods
A delegation from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), led by President Faruque Hassan, held a meeting with Alfred Sim, Vice President, and Lim Wei Chiang, Assist Vice President, Group Business Development at PSA International Ltd.
BGMEA President Faruque Hassan emphasized the need of smooth and faster services for Bangladeshi export items transported through Singapore.
Asif Ashraf, Director, BGMEA; Shams Mahmud, Chair of BGMEA Standing Committee on Foreign Mission Cell; Azfar Hassan, Director of Giant Group; and Sanjay Kumar Naha, Director of Rose Intimates Ltd were present at the meeting held in Singapore on January 30.
The meeting was also attended by Luthfun Nahar Shipu, Commercial Counsellor at Bangladesh High Commission in Singapore.
Discussions during the meeting revolved around mutual interests, with a primary focus on the transshipment process of Bangladeshi export goods through the Singapore port.
He requested PSA International to consider expanding their services in Bangladesh and providing port services at competitive prices within the shortest possible time.
The BGMEA delegation visited the Singapore port to gain firsthand experience of the port operations and various services offered by PSA International, according to the BGMEA.
Alfred Sim and Lim Wei Chiang expressed their appreciation for the visit and affirmed PSA International’s cooperation in facilitating smooth transshipment processes of Bangladeshi export goods.
PSA International Ltd is a global leader in port operations and logistics.
Danish Ambassador discusses collaboration opportunities in RMG sector with BGMEA chief
Ambassador of Denmark to Bangladesh Christian Brix Møller on Sunday met BGMEA President Faruque Hassan at the BGMEA Complex in and discussed issues of mutual interest.
Their discussions revolved around crucial issues related Bangladesh’s ready-made garments (RMG) industry, focusing on the current status, global market dynamics, challenges, and priorities for sustainable development.
Sammilito Parishad accords warm reception to RMG entrepreneurs who elected MPs in 12th National elections
The meeting also delved into the potential for enhanced collaboration between Denmark and Bangladesh, particularly in the areas of sustainability, circularity, and the integration of energy-efficient technologies within the garment industry.
The meeting also touched upon the preparation of Bangladeshi RMG and textile companies for the upcoming EU Due Diligence, said the BGMEA.
Sammilita Parishad starts election activities for BGMEA elections
Faruque Hassan apprised Ambassador Christian Brix Møller of BGMEA’s strategic vision to elevate the RMG industry’s position in the global market through product diversification, innovation, efficiency improvement, and skill development, with a paramount focus on sustainability.
He urged the Danish envoy to facilitate collaboration between BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology (BUFT) and leading Danish fashion institutes to enhance students’ knowledge and skills in key areas such as product and design development, along with the latest manufacturing technologies.
BGMEA partners with Manabik Shahajya Sangstha to provide eye care services to garment workers
The meeting was attended by Shams Mahmud, Chair, BGMEA Standing Committee on Foreign Mission Cell, Mohammed Kamal, Chair of BGMEA Standing Committee on Trade Fair, and Sanjay Kumar Naha, Director, Rose Intimates Limited.
Saadia Taufiq Sadi, Senior Trade Adviser, and Ali Asraf Khan, Supply Chain Specialist, from the Danish Embassy in Dhaka, were also present at the meeting.