[🇧🇩] Textile & RMG Industry of Bangladesh

[Saif]

RMG sector pays tribute to Rakib

The readymade garment (RMG) sector bid a heartfelt farewell to Abdullah Hil Rakib, founder and managing director of Team Group, at the BGMEA Complex in Uttara, Dhaka, before he was laid to rest at the BAF Shaheen graveyard on Saturday. A stalwart of the industry for over three decades, Rakib died i

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RMG sector pays tribute to Rakib

FE REPORT
Published :
Jun 15, 2025 09:37
Updated :
Jun 15, 2025 09:37

The readymade garment (RMG) sector bid a heartfelt farewell to Abdullah Hil Rakib, founder and managing director of Team Group, at the BGMEA Complex in Uttara, Dhaka, before he was laid to rest at the BAF Shaheen graveyard on Saturday. A stalwart of the industry for over three decades, Rakib died in a boating accident in Canada on June 8.

At the farewell ceremony, industry leaders gathered to honour his legacy and pledge to carry forward his unfinished dreams, particularly his vision of reaching $100 billion in RMG exports.

Former BGMEA president Faruque Hassan reflected on Rakib's lifelong dedication to family, business, and the RMG sector. "Rakib was always the first to step forward in times of crisis," he said.

Rakib served as a senior vice president of BGMEA and was deeply involved in the growth of Bangladesh's apparel sector. Md. Abul Kalam, Managing Director of Chaity Group, highlighted Rakib's ambition to elevate Bangladesh's apparel exports to $100 billion, committing to making that dream a reality.

Former BGMEA president SM Fazlul Hoque called Rakib a "shining light" with many dreams, while Quazi Moniruzzaman, another past president, praised Rakib for creating countless job opportunities.

Rakib's vision extended beyond business, including skills development, design, sustainability and branding Bangladesh globally. Asif Ashraf, Managing Director of Urmi Group, paid tribute to Rakib's vision for the nation's collective progress and better governance.

The ceremony was attended by Rakib's grieving family, including his wife Afroza Shaheen and children Mahir Daiyan and Lamia Tabassum. In a tearful tribute, Lamia pledged to fulfil her father's legacy.

Rakib's body was brought back to Dhaka on Friday night, and the first namaz-e-janaza was held at the BGMEA Complex on Saturday morning, followed by a second prayer after Zuhr at Banani DOHS. He was laid to rest at the BAF Shaheen graveyard. Rakib and his close friend Captain Md. Saifuzzaman Guddu of Biman Bangladesh Airlines died in the same boating accident in Canada.

Rakib is survived by his wife and two children. His family have been residing in Toronto for the children's education. Rakib had travelled to Canada to celebrate Eid with his family when the accident occurred.​

 

[Saif]

BGMEA signs MoU with Textilepages to enhance access to international buyers

The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and Textilepages.com, a global B2B platform, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Sunday at the former’s Uttara office in the city. This partnership aims to empower BGMEA member factories, particularly small and

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BGMEA signs MoU with Textilepages to enhance access to international buyers

FE ONLINE REPORT
Published :
Jun 15, 2025 20:44
Updated :
Jun 15, 2025 20:44

The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and Textilepages.com, a global B2B platform, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Sunday at the former’s Uttara office in the city.

This partnership aims to empower BGMEA member factories, particularly small and medium-sized exporters, by enhancing their digital presence and enabling direct access to international buyers free of charge, according to a statement.

Under the agreement, BGMEA members will gain access to key features of Textilepages.com, a leading global B2B platform dedicated to the textile and apparel industry.

It supports the broader mission of increasing Bangladesh’s export potential through digital transformation and global visibility.

Md Anwar Hossain, the administrator of BGMEA, said, “In today’s global market, digital visibility is essential for growth. This partnership will help our members, especially SMEs, connect with buyers worldwide and showcase the strength of Bangladesh’s apparel industry.”

Rahman Rob Bhuiyan, founder of Textilepages.com, BGMEA vice presidents Inamul Haq Khan Bablu and Shehab Udduza Chowdhury, among others, were also present.​

 

[Saif]

BGMEA, Swisscontact join forces

The apparel apex body, BGMEA and Swisscontact have joined forces to drive sustainable and inclusive transformation in the country’s readymade garments (RMG) sector. In this connection, Swisscontact and Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) on Sunday signed a Memo

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BGMEA, Swisscontact join forces

FE ONLINE REPORT
Published :
Jun 15, 2025 20:19
Updated :
Jun 15, 2025 20:19

The apparel apex body, BGMEA and Swisscontact have joined forces to drive sustainable and inclusive transformation in the country’s readymade garments (RMG) sector.

In this connection, Swisscontact and Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) on Sunday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the trade body’s headquarters in Uttara in the city, according to a statement.

The MoU formalises collaboration under three flagship projects implemented by Swisscontact – PROGRESS (Promoting Green Growth in the RMG Sector through Skills), InSPIRE (Initiative to Stimulate Private Investment for Resource Efficiency) and BYETS (Building Youth Employability through Skills).

The first two projects are funded by the Embassy of Sweden and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), while the third is funded by the Embassy of the Netherlands.

The MoU brings together BGMEA’s industry reach and Swisscontact’s development expertise to collaborate and promote sustainability, focusing on skills development for women and youth, environmental and social compliance, clean energy adoption, and joint outreach to support factory-level transformation in the RMG sector, added the statement.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ikramul H Sohel, Senior Programme Officer – Inclusive Economic Development of the Embassy of Sweden in Dhaka, said, “The Swedish government prioritises empowering MSMEs and advancing gender equality within the RMG sector. We believe this partnership between Swisscontact and BGMEA will bring these priorities to life by catalysing meaningful, long-term change that benefits both workers and businesses.”

BGMEA Administrator Anwar Hossain said, “This MoU reflects our commitment to strengthening Bangladesh’s RMG sector by enhancing competitiveness through innovation, workforce development, and sustainability. We look forward to working with Swisscontact to create tangible impact across the industry.”

“We are excited to join hands with BGMEA to scale our efforts in making the RMG sector more resilient, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable,” said Ishrat Fatema, Deputy Country Director of Swisscontact Bangladesh.

BGMEA's newly elected senior vice president Inamul Haq Khan Bablu and its Support Committee members Asif Ashraf and ANM Saifuddin were also present there.​

 

[Saif]

Iran-Israel conflict may affect Bangladesh’s RMG sector: BGMEA president

The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel might affect the country’s readymade garment business as the global prices of oil could rise due to the war, causing a hike in operational costs locally. “The Iran-Israel war could be a new challenge for the local garment industry, that coul

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Iran-Israel conflict may affect Bangladesh’s RMG sector: BGMEA president

FE ONLINE REPORT
Published :
Jun 16, 2025 19:48
Updated :
Jun 16, 2025 19:48

The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel might affect the country’s readymade garment business as the global prices of oil could rise due to the war, causing a hike in operational costs locally.

“The Iran-Israel war could be a new challenge for the local garment industry, that could result in a rise in global oil prices. And sustaining the competitiveness amid such a situation could be very challenging,” Mahmud Hasan Khan Babu, the newly elected president of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), said on Monday.

He made the remark at the charge handover ceremony of the BGMEA held at its Uttara office in the city.

The newly elected BGMEA board of directors, led by its president Mahmud Hasan Khan, took charge of the trade body for the term of 2025-2027.​

 

[Saif]

Most of the RMG factories were closed before August 5: Dr Sakhawat

Labour and Employment Adviser Brig Gen (Retd) Dr M Sakhawat Hossain on Wednesday said some garments factories experienced closures before last year’s August 5 although it was often mentioned that these closures were taken place after August 5. “The owners of these garments factories to

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Most of the RMG factories were closed before August 5: Dr Sakhawat

UNB
Published :
Jun 25, 2025 19:44
Updated :
Jun 25, 2025 19:44

Labour and Employment Adviser Brig Gen (Retd) Dr M Sakhawat Hossain on Wednesday said some garments factories experienced closures before last year’s August 5 although it was often mentioned that these closures were taken place after August 5.

“The owners of these garments factories took huge loans from the banks but they did not pay the salaries and dues of the employees timely,” he said while talking to journalists after attending a seminar at Bangladesh Public Administration Training Centre (BPATC).

The Defence Services Command and Staff College, Mirpur, organized the seminar with the participation of military officers of different ranks from 24 countries.

The adviser said that the owners of these garments have taken loans ranging from Tk 2 billion to Tk 3 billion from banks and most of them are now defaulters. Now, the banks are not giving more loans to them as they did not refund the money timely, Dr Sakhawat said.

Most of the owners of these garments have already left the country due to their own crisis as they ran their business with political connections, he added.

Replying to another question, Dr Sakhawat claimed that most of the employees of recently closed Beximco Group have already joined different factories across the country including Chattogram.​

 

[Saif]

3-day int’l textile expo begins

The 16th edition of Intex Bangladesh Expo 2025 began on Wednesday at International Convention City Bashundhara in the capital...

www.newagebd.net

3-day int’l textile expo begins
Staff Correspondent 25 June, 2025, 22:29

The 16th edition of Intex Bangladesh Expo 2025 began on Wednesday at International Convention City Bashundhara in the capital.

The three-day international textile sourcing show is hosting over 125 companies from more than 10 countries, providing a dynamic platform for global buyers, suppliers and manufacturers, said a press release.

Commerce secretary Mahbubur Rahman was present as chief guest and Export Promotion Bureau chairman Md Anwar Hossain as guest of honour in the inaugural event.

Mahbubur Rahman said, ‘Bangladesh is no longer just a volume player — it’s emerging fast as a global hub for sustainable, value-added apparel manufacturing. With strategic investment in innovation, compliance and skilled workforce, the country is well-positioned to lead the next chapter of responsible fashion and textile sourcing. We believe that a platform like INTEX Bangladesh will play a major role in achieving our strategic goals while ensuring quality products in a competitive global market.’

This year’s expo features prominent country pavilions. India, through TEXPROCIL and PDEXCIL, is showcasing cotton, blends and sustainable textiles; China brings technical fabrics and garment trims; South Korea features eco-friendly performance materials; while Thailand and Japan contribute premium shirting and woven products. Bangladeshi exhibitors are highlighting advancements in knitwear, denim and vertically integrated production solutions.

As part of the expo, Interactive Business Forum will host two thought-provoking sessions. The first explores the integration of AI in textile production and fashion, while the second addresses the impact of global tariffs and trade shifts on Bangladeshi exports.​

 

[Saif]

Muslin’s revival weaves past into present

On a golden summer morning in Rupganj, Narayanganj, the sound of handlooms echoes from tin-roofed sheds nestled amid winding village paths and open fields.

www.thedailystar.net

Muslin’s revival weaves past into present

A centuries-old fabric once lost to history is being revived -- and with it, a new generation of artisans, mostly women, are weaving their way into the economy.

Photo: Ibrahim Khalil Ibu

On a golden summer morning in Rupganj, Narayanganj, the sound of handlooms echoes from tin-roofed sheds nestled amid winding village paths and open fields. Inside, women and men sit in quiet focus, spinning delicate threads. Here, in the heart of what was once Bengal's muslin belt, a fabric that disappeared nearly two centuries ago is being reborn -- and with it, the livelihoods of hundreds of rural artisans.

The Dhakai muslin revival project, formally titled Bangladesh's Golden Heritage: Muslin Yarn Making Technology and Revival of Muslin Fabrics, was launched in 2018 with a budget of Tk 12.1 crore. Its goals were ambitious: to rediscover the lost phuti karpas cotton, retrain weavers in long-forgotten techniques, and re-establish muslin as a symbol of national pride -- and rural prosperity.

What began as a heritage restoration initiative has evolved into a grassroots economic movement, creating employment, empowering women, and anchoring a new kind of rural artisan economy in the legacy of an ancient craft.

For nearly 200 years, the threads of muslin lay broken. Once draped across Mughal emperors and traded across Europe and the Middle East, Dhakai muslin collapsed under the combined weight of colonial violence, industrial competition, and economic neglect. British policies in the 18th and 19th centuries, including punitive taxation, import substitution, and, according to some historical accounts, deliberate sabotage, brought the muslin industry to its knees. The decline of the Mughal Empire and the disappearance of phuti karpas, the rare cotton plant used in muslin, sealed its fate.

Not until 2014 did serious efforts begin to revive it. That year, the Ministry of Textiles and Jute issued a directive: bring back muslin. Four years later, the project was formally launched under the Bangladesh Handloom Board. A research committee was formed, including experts from Bangladesh Textile University, Rajshahi University, BTMC, and the Cotton Development Board.

"We launched this project to revive our heritage and golden past," said Md Ayub Ali, the project's director. "And we worked with that goal in mind."

The first challenge was scientific: to locate and cultivate phuti karpas again. But equally vital was the rediscovery of ultra-fine hand-spinning techniques -- the kind once capable of producing yarn counts above 500, so fine it could pass through a signet ring.

In Chandina and Debidwar in Cumilla, researchers found ageing artisans still producing low-count yarns on foot-powered spindles. Through rigorous training and patient mentoring, many have now reached counts as high as 731, approaching the legendary fineness of historical muslin.

Beyond historical restoration, the project has offered a lifeline to hundreds of rural women who had little or no access to income. Among them is Marjia Begum, 18, from a small village near Narayanganj.

"I had to stop school during the coronavirus lockdown. We just couldn't afford anything anymore," she said. Having studied up to class 9, she faced a future filled with economic uncertainty. "I was not in any job, and I had no skills. I used to just sit at home, worried all the time," she recalled.

Her life changed when she was selected for muslin training under the revival initiative. "At first, I didn't even understand what muslin really was," she said, laughing. "But the trainers were patient. Slowly, I began to love it."

Marjia now earns Tk 550 a day -- enough to support her family and save for the future. "It's not just a job," she said. "This is dignity. I can help my parents. I feel important."

Like Marjia, most of the 327 women trained so far had previously been engaged in unpaid domestic work. "Out of 327 women weavers, 300 were in domestic work, which we do not value economically," said Ayub Ali. "They've come out, taken training, and are now contributing. This is a major achievement in women's empowerment."

The structure of the workday, typically from 7 am to 2 pm, allows women to balance paid work with household responsibilities. Many bring their children to the muslin centres, where they play nearby.

Jayeda Akter Joba, 24, lives near Dhaka Muslin House in Rupganj. "I finished higher secondary school, but after that, I couldn't study further. We often struggled to eat even once a day," she said. Curious about the training, she joined. "I'd read that kings and queens once wore muslin. I never thought I'd help make it."

After six months of training, Joba now earns a stable income. "I support my family with my husband, pay for my children's expenses, and I no longer feel like a burden."

WEAVING SKILL, HISTORY AND DIGNITY

Mohsina Akhter, 33, began her career as a domestic help in Chandina, Cumilla. Today, she is a supervisor and trainer at the Dhaka Muslin House. "It took me two to three years of practice to master the technique," she said. Now earning Tk 16,800 per month, she trains other women and supports her family. "I feel proud, not just for what I make, but for what I pass on."

Aasia Begum, 31, worked for years as a Jamdani weaver before transitioning to muslin. "Jamdani is easier," she explained. "Muslin is much more delicate. Everything is done by hand -- spinning, weaving -- and it takes a long time. I often get back pain from sitting for hours."

Despite the difficulties, Aasia has completed three full muslin pieces. "It's something our ancestors were famous for. I'm proud to be part of this history."

Yet even pride has its limits. "If this project continues and our income increases, we'll be more empowered and the muslin industry will rise again," she said.

That tension -- between cultural legacy and economic viability -- is echoed by other artisans.

Sabuj Mia, a senior weaver, said: "We're proud to bring muslin back, but for us artisans to stay committed, we need fair wages that match the time and effort this work demands. If income grows steadily, muslin won't just survive, it will thrive."

He added that many artisans are the sole breadwinners in their families. "We can't keep going just on pride. We need consistent support and better pay. Then this heritage won't be a burden -- it'll be a future."

The project has achieved symbolic milestones. In March 2021, muslin received geographical indication (GI) certification. In July the same year, it won the national Public Administration Medal (institutional category), recognising its role in reviving a critical piece of Bangladesh's cultural identity.

The Dhaka Muslin House, established in Tarabo along the Shitalakshya River, once a thriving zone of muslin trade, now functions as both a production hub and a living museum.

In the first phase, artisans produced 58 pieces of muslin cloth, including 27 sarees -- some complete, others still in progress, as well as scarves and veils. These pieces are not being sold commercially, but serve as research and exhibition material.

A second phase began in March 2025 and will run until mid-2027. It aims to refine cotton varieties, improve pre-weaving processes, and train private entrepreneurs for future scale-up. "We plan to transfer the project to private hands for long-term commercial production, both nationally and globally," said Ali.

Still, concerns linger over job security. Many workers remain under project-based contracts, with uncertain continuity. During funding gaps or administrative lulls, some artisans have left for garment factories, lured by more stable income. For muslin to flourish, workers say, it needs not just pride but protection.

A FABRIC OF THE FUTURE

Today, muslin is more than a cloth. It is a return on cultural investment, a rediscovery of skill, dignity, and economic value rooted in tradition. The revival of Dhakai muslin illustrates what heritage restoration can achieve when paired with inclusive employment, targeted training, and sustained institutional support.

And in the fingers of women like Marjia, the legacy of Bengal's most exquisite fabric is being rewoven -- not just into cloth, but into lives, livelihoods, and a future stitched with purpose.

While the term "muslin" continues to be used commercially by fashion brands, much of it is in name only, Md Monzur Hossain, professor of Botany at Rajshahi University and a member of the muslin research team, said. "Muslin is still being marketed by various fashion companies, but mostly as a trade name because the word 'muslin' has commercial appeal," he said. "If you use the name, it sells."

But true Dhakai muslin, he emphasised, must meet specific criteria in both material and technique. "Authentic Dhakai muslin must be made entirely of cotton and woven with yarn of a specific count," he said, adding that the revival project even developed a new spinning wheel to meet these traditional standards.

"Whether the yarn is 300 count and produced locally or imported -- these are critical considerations," Hossain added. "If these criteria aren't met, it can't be called genuine Dhakai muslin."​

 

[Saif]

Textile waste can be exported to Pakistan: BGMEA

Pakistan can meet the growing demands of its recycling industry by importing garment industry waste (textile waste) from Bangladesh, said Mahmud Hasan Khan Babu, president of the BGMEA on Sunday...

www.newagebd.net

Textile waste can be exported to Pakistan: BGMEA
Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha . Dhaka 29 June, 2025, 22:03

Pakistan can meet the growing demands of its recycling industry by importing garment industry waste (textile waste) from Bangladesh, said Mahmud Hasan Khan Babu, president of the BGMEA on Sunday.

He said Bangladesh is the largest producer of jute in the world, and there is significant demand for Bangladeshi jute fibre in Pakistan.

‘If Pakistan imports jute fibre, it will be beneficial for both the countries,’ said the BGMEA President.

He made the remarks when Muhammad Wasif, Chargé d’Affaires of the Pakistan High Commission paid a courtesy visit to Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association office in Uttara on Sunday, said a BGMEA press release.

Trade and Investment Attaché of the high commission Zain Aziz, BGMEA vice-president Md Rezwan Selim, and directors Faisal Samad, Sumaiya Islam, and Fahima Akhter were present at the meeting.

The meeting focused on strengthening and expanding trade ties between the two nations, particularly in the garment and textile sectors, and explored other potential areas of cooperation.

The release said discussions included increasing textile imports from Pakistan and exporting ready-made garments and accessories from Bangladesh to Pakistan. Bangladesh has made notable progress in garment accessories production.

Both sides agreed to share knowledge, send business delegations, and collaborate on exhibitions and workshops.

They also discussed the implementation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) previously signed between the BGMEA and the Pakistan Readymade Garments Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PRGMEA) to promote bilateral trade.

The BGMEA President emphasized that active involvement from business communities in both the countries is vital for the MoU’s implementation.

Both parties agreed to appoint focal points to further accelerate trade and investment cooperation.​

 

[Saif]

undefined | The Financial Express

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

TRUMP TARIFFS
US fashion cos plan further China dependency cut: Study

Monira Munni
Published :
Jul 01, 2025 00:02
Updated :
Jul 01, 2025 00:02

US fashion companies plan to further cut their dependency on China due to the Trump administration's escalating tariffs and policy uncertainties, according to the findings of a survey.

"Far from surprising, many leading US fashion companies expressed concerns that the Trump administration's escalating tariffs have resulted in higher sourcing costs and cut companies' profit margins," the survey said.

"To mitigate these impacts, most companies plan to further reduce their 'China exposure,' maintain a geographically diversified sourcing base, and prioritise flexibility in sourcing and shipping," it said.

With the hiking tariff rate on US apparel imports from China and increasing strategic competition between the two countries, many leading US fashion companies plan to reduce their apparel sourcing from China to a single-digit, if not move out of the country entirely, it added.

Local exporters, however, see business opportunities, saying Bangladesh has the capacity to grab the possible shifted work orders with a competitive edge, provided it addresses internal issues like the energy crisis and other logistics-related barriers.

Dr Sheng Lu, a professor of fashion and apparel studies at the University of Delaware, analysed the available data and transcripts of the latest earnings calls from approximately 25 leading publicly traded US fashion companies between mid-May and June 2025, as well as covered company performances in the first quarter of this year.

The study aimed to examine the impacts of the Trump administration's escalating tariffs on US fashion companies' apparel sourcing practices.

It found no clear evidence that the current policy environment has successfully incentivised US companies to expand apparel sourcing from the Western Hemisphere, let alone commit to new long-term investments.

Meanwhile, US fashion companies have adopted a strategic pricing approach by not passing the entire cost increase to consumers through widespread retail price hikes.

Maintaining a geographically diverse sourcing base remains a popular strategy for US fashion companies to mitigate the impacts of increasing tariffs and ongoing policy uncertainties.

Companies particularly intend to avoid "putting too many eggs in one basket" and limiting the reliance on any single supplying country.

When asked, Fazlul Hoque, managing director of Plummy Fashions Ltd, said there is immense potential for Bangladesh amid the US existing flat rate of an additional 10 per cent tariff.

Exports would rise if Bangladesh performs better with efficiency and enhanced capacity, especially for value-added items, he said.

Mr Hoque, also a former president of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), however, said the prices of new orders of locally made apparels would increase, while the real prices offered by buyers would fall further, which is a challenge.

Also, India could be a new competitor for Bangladesh.

Despite the challenges, orders shifted from China can come here, but questions remain about the extent to which Bangladesh can grab the opportunity with the existing internal issues like the energy crisis, high bank interest rates, low efficiency, and incentive cuts.

Exporters said on average, local suppliers have to take the 50 per cent cost burden of the US enhanced tariff (additional 10 per cent), with the three-month pause ending on July 9.

Shovon Islam, managing director of Sparrow Group, said the growth in apparel exports to both the European Union (EU) and the US in recent months has shown that Bangladesh, followed by India and Pakistan, is one of the gainers from order shifts from China.

There is also a high potential to get higher chunks of the shifts, he said, raising questions about whether Bangladesh could and would grab the future share as the country still depends on imported raw materials, mostly for value-added items and manmade fibres (MMF).

There is no fresh investment to enhance capacity, especially MMF and other high value-added items, he noted.

The growth could be higher if garment makers get the required financial support from banks as they got earlier due to the tightening monetary policy and energy shortages, among others, said Mr Islam.

He alleged that exporters are in the dark over what would happen after July 9 as they get no clear message from the government about what measures it is taking or going to take over the new US tariffs.

Besides, he said about 15 per cent of work orders for the spring season have been kept on hold, while he received 10 per cent fewer orders for the holiday season, mostly Christmas.

That is why they could not communicate with buyers in this regard, he noted. Sayeed Ahmad Chowdhury, director of operation at Square Denim, expressed concern as to how much of the shifting orders from China Bangladesh could grab, saying the country has lost a good volume of production capacity due to the closure of several vertically integrated groups of companies, including Beximco, Nassa, and Mahmud.

Stressing capacity enhancement, he said many factories, especially textile units located in Bhaluka and Gazipur, cannot use their full production capacity due to poor energy supply.

Factories mostly having relations with "weak banks" are still struggling to open letters of credit (LCs) while infrastructure and other logistics issues finally resulted in an increase in lead times, he added.

Data shows China's share in the US market in 2013 was 37.7 per cent, which decreased to 21.3 per cent in 2023.

In the meantime, Bangladesh's share rose to 9.0 per cent in 2023, which was 6.0 per cent in 2013.

Vietnam grabbed 17.8 per cent of the US apparel market in 2023, up from 10 per cent in 2013. India's share stood at 5.8 per cent in 2023, which was 4.0 per cent in 2013.

Cambodia and Pakistan's shares stood at 4.3 per cent and 2.6 per cent, respectively, in 2023, which were 3.2 per cent and 1.9 per cent in 2013.​

 

[Saif]

BGMEA team meets BIDA-BEZA chief to discuss sustainable growth of RMG sector

A high-level delegation from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) today (Monday) met with Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) and the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) at the BIDA O

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BGMEA team meets BIDA-BEZA chief to discuss sustainable growth of RMG sector

Published :
Jun 30, 2025 19:53
Updated :
Jun 30, 2025 19:53

A high-level delegation from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) today (Monday) met with Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) and the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) at the BIDA Office in the city in an effort to promote sustainable development and increase investment in the country's ready-made garment (RMG) sector.

The BGMEA delegation was led by its President, Mahmud Hasan Khan, and Vice President, Mijanur Rahman, alongside other senior members of the association, BSS reports citing a press release.

The meeting covered a wide range of topics that are important to the RMG industry, such as infrastructure support, gas supply, LNG import prices, dependable energy access, and access to reasonably priced financing. A simpler VAT and tax system for the circular economy and clothing recycling subsector was also emphasised by the delegation.

BGMEA Vice President Mijanur Rahman emphasized the necessity of revisiting the current loan classification policy of Bangladesh Bank to facilitate investment by genuine entrepreneurs.

"We urge BIDA to raise this issue with the Governor of Bangladesh Bank for constructive policy reform," he stated.

He also called for NBR(National Board of Revenue)'s audit mechanisms to be more consultative and less burdensome for industry stakeholders, adding, "Entrepreneurs expect a transparent, discussion-based audit environment that supports, not stifles, industrial growth."

Speaking at the event, Mahmud Hasan Khan announced plans to establish a large integrated garment industrial complex in Chattogram on at least 10 acres of land.

"This hub, designed as a multi-factory facility, will allow numerous small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to operate under one roof, which will reduce production costs, streamline investment processes, and boost competitiveness," he noted.

During the meeting, Ashik Chowdhury highlighted the RMG industry as a vital component of Bangladesh's economic growth.

He reaffirmed the government's commitment to deepening public-private collaboration and assured BGMEA of BIDA's full support through policy facilitation and structured industry consultation to accelerate the sector's sustainable growth.​

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh’s apparel export to US rose to $7.34b in a decade: US Report

Bangladesh’s apparel export to the USA market increased to US$ 7.34 billion from $5.4 billion in a decade, according to the US Government Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA). The report revealed, apparel imports from Bangladesh to the USA in 2015 were valued at US $5.40 billion, rising to

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Bangladesh’s apparel export to US rose to $7.34b in a decade: US Report

UNB
Published :
Jun 30, 2025 19:00
Updated :
Jun 30, 2025 19:01

Bangladesh’s apparel export to the USA market increased to US$ 7.34 billion from $5.4 billion in a decade, according to the US Government Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA).

The report revealed, apparel imports from Bangladesh to the USA in 2015 were valued at US $5.40 billion, rising to US $7.34 billion by 2024, reflecting a notable 35.94 percent growth over the same period.

While experiencing a positive trajectory until 2019, the emergence of COVID led to an 11.76 percent decline in 2020 ($5.92 billion was in 2019 and $5.22 billion was in 2020).

Since 2020, Bangladesh has shown impressive growth at 40.45 percent, surpassing the USA’s growth rate of 23.72 percent, according to the report.

The OTEXA stated that in 2015, apparel imports to the USA totalled US $85.16 billion, decreasing to US $79.26 billion by 2024, marking a 6.94 percent decline over the decade.

The trend was consistently positive until 2019, but with the onset of COVID, a significant 23.47 percent drop was observed in 2020 ($83.70 billion was in 2019 and $64.06 billion was in 2020).

Despite the USA showing signs of recovery post-COVID, the economic downturn was substantial, failing to meet the import of 2015 even in 2024.

During US recessions, consumer spending reductions notably impact clothing expenditures, reflecting broader economic shifts impacting the apparel market.

With the USA retail sector heavily reliant on imports (comprising 95 percent of the industry), challenges such as high tariffs (averaging 18.5 percent pre-Trump era), escalating freight costs, and short apparel market lifespans have hindered integration into supply chains.​

 

[Saif]

Reforms, diversification could supercharge RMG exports

Bangladesh's readymade garment (RMG) sector could be on the cusp of a transformative leap, with the potential to earn up to US$94 billion in annual export earnings by 2029, if the country expands into non-traditional markets and embraces manmade fibre (MMF) production. This ambitious amount is exp

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Reforms, diversification could supercharge RMG exports

FE REPORT
Published :
Jul 02, 2025 00:21
Updated :
Jul 02, 2025 00:21

Bangladesh's readymade garment (RMG) sector could be on the cusp of a transformative leap, with the potential to earn up to US$94 billion in annual export earnings by 2029, if the country expands into non-traditional markets and embraces manmade fibre (MMF) production.

This ambitious amount is expected to be achieved at an average annual growth rate of 15 per cent, which would require coordinated reforms across trade, industry, and finance, according to a new diagnostic report jointly released by the World Bank, IFC, and MIGA.

Beyond export earnings, the report outlines how strategic reforms and sectoral investments could create over 664,000 new formal jobs in the domestic paint and textile dye industry, and formalise hundreds of thousands more through the digitalisation of financial services.

Additionally, unlocking housing sector potential could draw US$2.0 billion in private investment into construction and allied industries, providing another major boost to employment and economic resilience, according to findings presented at a high-profile event on Tuesday.

The adoption of reforms in digital financial services (DFS) could create up to 460,000 new jobs, including the formalisation of around 360,000 informal positions, the report said.

The analysis was shared at a dissemination event for the 'Country Private Sector Diagnostic (CPSD) for Bangladesh' report, jointly conducted by the World Bank, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA).

The event was held at a hotel in Dhaka, with stakeholders from the government and private sector in attendance.

Suhail Kassim, Senior Operations Officer at the World Bank, delivered the sectoral insights virtually.

IFC Country Manager Martin Holtmann, World Bank's new Country Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan Jean Pesme, senior private sector specialist Hosna Ferdous Sumi, and IFC operations officer Miah Rahmat Ali and operations analyst Noor Ahmed Naveed, among others, spoke at the event.

The CPSD identified four key sectors with high growth potential where targeted private investment could stimulate significant economic development are greening the RMG sector, housing for middle-income groups, domestic production of paint and textile dyes, and expansion of digital financial services (DFS).

The report also included an overview of the country's business climate, foreign direct investment (FDI) trends, cross-cutting challenges, and institutional bottlenecks that continue to hinder private sector development.

Electricity shortages topped the list of business obstacles, followed by limited access to finance, corruption, informality, and high tax rates.

Syed Nasim Manzur, President of the Leathergoods and Footwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association of Bangladesh (LFMEAB), said the most pressing concerns for investors today are policy inconsistency, regulatory overreach, and systemic corruption.

Speaking on the challenges facing the RMG sector, Mr Kassim noted high import duties on non-cotton raw materials such as MMF, a lack of regulation on fabric waste and groundwater use, and low levels of investment in modern technologies.

These, he said, are key constraints to achieving greener and more sustainable production.

He also stressed the need for labour law reforms to ensure continued access to the EU market following Bangladesh's graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, in line with upcoming European green product standards such as the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation.

To remove market distortions, the report recommended ending the cash incentives for exports of PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottles and flakes, aligning duties on solar inverters and panels to create a level playing field, and introducing water efficiency certification for RMG firms.

In the paint and dye sector, the CPSD highlighted inconsistent customs classifications on imported inputs and the high cost of inventory holding as major barriers to domestic production.

It recommended digitising customs procedures, revising bonded warehouse policies to permit third-party operations, and improving logistics to reduce trade costs.

For the housing sector, high urban development costs and cumbersome land registration and clearance processes were seen as key hurdles.

The report called for improving access to municipal services, digitalising land records, and expanding access to housing finance to attract long-term investment in affordable housing for the middle class.

In digital financial services, the CPSD suggested policy actions to promote wholesale transactions via mobile financial services and encourage the use of structured finance by removing taxes on assets moved between originators and financing vehicles.

These steps could deepen financial inclusion and make DFS a stronger engine for job creation. The report, while optimistic about Bangladesh's growth potential, underscores the need for regulatory clarity, digital transformation, and an inclusive investment climate to fully unlock the capacity of the private sector.​

 

[Saif]

‘Expansion into non-traditional markets, adoption of MMF to boost annual export by 15pc’

Expansion into non-traditional markets and the adoption of MMF (manmade fibre) could lead to an average annual export growth of 15 per cent, potentially increasing the country’s readymade garment foreign currency earnings to US$94 billion by 2029. Besides, expansion in domestic pain and dye

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

‘Expansion into non-traditional markets, adoption of MMF to boost annual export by 15pc’
Says report prepared by World Bank, IFC, MIGA about Bangladesh

FE ONLINE REPORT
Published :
Jul 01, 2025 19:27
Updated :
Jul 01, 2025 19:30

Expansion into non-traditional markets and the adoption of MMF (manmade fibre) could lead to an average annual export growth of 15 per cent, potentially increasing the country’s readymade garment foreign currency earnings to US$94 billion by 2029.

Besides, expansion in domestic pain and dye production could lead to the creation of over 0.664 million formal jobs within the sector, while up to 0.46 million new jobs with formalising up to 0.36 million informal jobs could be possible if required reforms are made for digital financial services.

Reforms in regulatory, supply-side and demand-side constraints that are hampering private investments in housing could create investment potential of about US$2.0 billion in construction and allied industries.

The statistics were disclosed on Tuesday at a dissemination event on the ‘Bangladesh: Country Private Sector Diagnostic (CPSD) for Bangladesh’ report jointly by the World Bank, IFC and MIGA held in a city hotel.

Suhail Kassim, senior operations officer at the World Bank, shared the sectoral overview at the event virtually while

IFC country manager Martin Holtmann, World Bank’s new country division director for Bangladesh and Bhutan Jean Pesme and senior private sector specialist Hosna Ferdous Sumi and IFC operations officer Miah Rahmat Ali and operations analyst Noor Ahmed Naveed, among others, spoke there.

The CPSD contains a thorough analysis by the WBG, which pinpointed four specific sectors-- greening the Ready-Made Garments (RMG) sector, housing for the middle-income segment, paints and textile dyes and digital financial services that have high growth potential and where private investment can stimulate economic growth and development.

It also included an overview of the country context, including a discussion on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) trends, business environment, cross-cutting constraints to private investment, and the strength of institutional underpinnings for private sector development.​

 

[Saif]

RMG, textile leaders urge gas policy reforms to boost output

Leaders from Bangladesh's leading ready-made garment (RMG) and textile industry associations have urged the government to exempt industrial and captive gas-run facilities from seeking re-approval from Titas Gas Transmission and Distribution Company Ltd during internal rearrangements-provided their

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

RMG, textile leaders urge gas policy reforms to boost output

FE REPORT
Published :
Jul 03, 2025 09:05
Updated :
Jul 03, 2025 09:05

Leaders from Bangladesh's leading ready-made garment (RMG) and textile industry associations have urged the government to exempt industrial and captive gas-run facilities from seeking re-approval from Titas Gas Transmission and Distribution Company Ltd during internal rearrangements-provided their hourly load, monthly load, and outlet pressure remain unchanged.

"Removing the requirement for prior approvals will help the industry adopt more energy-efficient and high-performance machinery. We believe this will significantly boost energy efficiency, enhance production, and contribute to valuable foreign exchange earnings," they added.

The leaders recently made this appeal in a joint letter to Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, Adviser to the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources.

The industry leaders warned that procedural delays and restrictions in the current gas connection approval process are hurting production and costing the country valuable export earnings.

The appeal-endorsed by Hossain Mehmood, President, Bangladesh Terry Towel & Linen Manufacturers & Exporters Association (BTTLMEA), Fazlee Shamim Ehsan, Executive President, Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers & Exporters Association (BGMEA), Anwar-ul-Alam Chowdhury (Parvez), President, Bangladesh Chamber of Industries (BCI), Taskeen Ahmed, President, Dhaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI), Mahmud Hasan Khan, President, Bangladesh Garments Manufacturers & Exporters Association (BGMEA) and Showkat Aziz Russell, President, Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA)-highlights that RMG and textile mills are unable to operate at full capacity due to inadequate gas supply, resulting in up to 40 per cent lower production.

They stated that most factories are established with BIDA's approval and built with significant investment in infrastructure, imported machinery, and utilities, often backed by bank financing. But despite this, companies are unable to fully utilise their installations and meet export targets.

Industry leaders argued that frequent restructuring or machinery replacements are required to improve efficiency or respond to changing buyer demands. However, the current requirement to seek prior approval from gas distribution companies for any rearrangement-even within factory premises-causes unnecessary delays.

They proposed that gas distributors should not interfere in the internal setup of customer premises beyond the RMS (Regulating and Metering Station) room, provided that the approved load and pressure remain unchanged. Additionally, they requested the withdrawal of a previous directive requiring clearance from electricity distribution companies (e.g., Palli Bidyut) for new captive power connections above 10 MW, citing the national grid's unreliable supply.

Other key demands include allowing unused gas load from one industrial unit to be transferred to another under the same ownership and premises without reclassifying it as a new connection.

They also called for permitting load transfers across different premises owned by the same company and introducing a digital application system for gas connections and meter installations, with a fixed processing timeframe of 3-5 working days.

"Authorising regional gas offices to approve load rearrangements would avoid higher-level delays. Establishing an approved list of gas meter brands and models would also simplify procurement and reduce installation times," the letter read.

They further sought automatic approval of low-pressure regulators in areas with chronic pressure shortfalls.

The industry leaders argued that these reforms would enhance energy efficiency, enable the adoption of modern machinery, and allow uninterrupted production-contributing significantly to export growth and foreign exchange earnings.

The letter was also copied to the Adviser to the Ministry of Commerce for information and necessary action.​

 

[Saif]

COTTON IMPORTS: Textile millers for removal of 2pc AIT

Textile millers of the country have urged the government to withdraw a 2 per cent advance income tax imposed on imported cotton recently.

www.newagebd.net

COTTON IMPORTS: Textile millers for removal of 2pc AIT
Staff Correspondent 04 July, 2025, 22:57

A file photo shows a worker overseeing a cotton processing machine at a factory in Habiganj. | New Age photo New Age merchandise

Textile millers of the country have urged the government to withdraw a 2 per cent advance income tax imposed on imported cotton recently.

They also requested the government to exempt specific tax of Tk 5 imposed on per kilogram of domestic production of cotton yarn, manmade fibre and mixed fibre in the budget of the 2025-26financial year, which was Tk 3 per kilogram.

Showkat Aziz Russel, president of the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association, made these requests in separate letters sent to advisers of the finance and commerce ministries, governor of the Bangladesh Bank and chairman of the National Board of Revenue on Thursday.Bangladesh-themed souvenirs

BTMA president Showkat Aziz Russell said that the newly imposed AIT and specific tax on yarn would severely disrupt domestic spinning mills and endanger the sector’s competitiveness.

Recently, the government issued an SRO imposing a 2 per cent AIT on imports of over 150 essentials and capital goods for industries.

The range of items facing 2 per cent AIT included machinery, spares and raw materials for various industries, like the ready-made garment and textiles.

The NBR issued a gazette notification last month, where some major items like cotton, wheat, flour, maize, rice, soya beans, sunflower seeds, mustard seeds, linseed, sugar, bulbs, tubers, jet fuels, kerosene, diesel, furnace oil, LPG, natural gas, petroleum bitumen, iron oxides and zinc sulphate faced a 2 per cent AIT.

Referring to the SRO, the BTMA president said that the decision was made without consulting industry stakeholders and was likely to be ‘self-defeating’ for the sector and the wider economy.

‘Although it may appear to aid revenue mobilisation, in reality, it would be suicidal. The imposition of this AIT would significantly increase production costs, placing our textile mills at a disadvantage compared with competitors in other countries and making it impossible for local textile mills to sustain their businesses under the burden of a 2 per cent AIT,’ he added.

He also said that this 2 per cent AIT on every consignment would effectively accumulate to 29 per cent annually, gradually squeezing the working capital of mills and that could deplete entirely within three years.

Meanwhile, to respond this governmental decision, the BTAM called a press conference scheduled on Saturday, that is today.

Showkat said that Bangladesh did not produce cotton and was entirely dependent on imports and the local mills had the capacity to supply 100 per cent of yarn for the knit sector and 55-60 per cent for woven apparel.Bangladesh-themed souvenirs

He also said that this was accomplished despite challenges like gas and electricity price hikes, dollar crisis, local currency devaluation, rising interest rates and declining export incentives.

‘Such policy decisions, made without consultation, put at risk the $75 billion investment in the textile and apparel sector and undermine the target of reaching $100 billion in export earnings by 2030,’ the BTMA said.

The association called on the government to support the domestic textile sector as a key partner in export growth, rather than weakening its competitiveness through abrupt fiscal measures.​