RMG
JTOP, Mitsubishi UFJ Research & Consulting explores collaboratives opportunities with BGMEA to drive sustainability in RMG industry
In a move towards bolstering environmental sustainability in Bangladesh's garment sector, a high-level delegation from JTOP Co. Ltd (JTOP) and Mitsubishi UFJ Research and Consulting Co. Ltd. (MURC) convened with Faruque Hassan, President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) on Wednesday (March 12).
Led by Jiichi Nakaki from JTOP and Shoji Kita along with Yasuko Hashimoto representing MURC, the delegation engaged in constructive dialogue aimed at fostering collaboration to enhance the environmental footprint of the garment and textile industry in Bangladesh, reads a press release.
The focal point of the meeting revolved around exploring avenues for partnership to address environmental concerns, particularly in wastewater management and recycling. JTOP's cutting-edge technologies for wastewater treatment were discussed extensively, with emphasis on their potential to reduce environmental pollution from textile and dyeing factories through cost-effective and recyclable solutions.
Discussions delved into pertinent issues including wastewater regulations, the prevailing conditions within the textile industry, installation of wastewater treatment facilities in factories, the imperative for water recycling, and concerns regarding land subsidence.
Faruque Hassan underscored Bangladesh's commitment to advancing environmental sustainability within the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) sector.
He briefed the visiting delegation on the RMG industry's ongoing efforts to promote sustainability, including circularity and compliance with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards across the manufacturing process.
He expressed BGMEA's openness to any initiatives and partnerships aimed at fostering a greener and more sustainable garment industry in Bangladesh.
BGMEA President urges VF Corporation to source more high-value garments from Bangladesh
President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) Faruque Hassan urged VF Corporation to strengthen its partnership with Bangladeshi suppliers to enhance their capabilities in designing and manufacturing high-demand apparel products.
He said this in a meeting with Sean Cady, Vice President of Global Sustainability, Responsibility and Trade at VF Corporation on Wednesday (March 13).
The BGMEA President called upon VF Corporation to increase its sourcing of garments, particularly high-value products, from Bangladesh, reads a press release.
Highlighting the industry's commitment to sustainable growth, he mentioned the BGMEA's Sustainability Strategic Vision 2030 which outlines a roadmap for sustainable industry growth that prioritizes positive environmental and social impact.
He also requested VF Corporation to consider collaboration with BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology (BUFT) to develop the knowledge and skills of its students in fashion design, product development, and other relevant fields.
The discussions covered various aspects of the sector, including its current situation, growth potential, long-term vision, and ongoing efforts to enhance industry competitiveness.
A key focus of the meeting was exploring avenues to strengthen VF Corporation's business presence in Bangladesh and fostering a deeper relationship with the renowned apparel brand.
Both sides also talked about potential collaboration on achieving shared sustainability goals, particularly supporting VF's Bangladeshi suppliers in adopting sustainable practices in manufacturing process.
Their discussion also encompassed collaborative opportunities in skills development, especially mid-level management, and workers’ welfare initiatives.
The meeting was also attended by incoming President of BGMEA S. M. Mannan (Kochi), Vice President Md. Nasir Uddin, Directors Asif Ashraf, Abdullah Hil Rakib, newly elected Directors of BGMEA for 2024-2026 term Mohammad Sohel Sadat, Ashikur Rahman (Tuhin), Saifuddin Siddiquie Sagar, and Md. Rezaul Alam (Miru).
Jessica Nursoo, Regional Director – South Asia and Indonesia was present at the meeting.
CEMS Global, CCPIT-TEX China’s exhibitions on yarn, fabric kicks off in Dhaka
CEMS-Global USA and CCPIT-TEX China’s international exhibitions on Yarn and Fabric kicked off at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB), Dhaka on Wednesday.
The exhibitions will run till March 9 providing global manufacturers of yarn, fabric, trims and sccessories with a unique platform to showcase the latest advancements, new opportunities and to forge meaningful partnerships in Bangladesh.
The 21st Dhaka International Yarn & Fabric Show 2024 (Winter Edition), organized by CEMS-Global USA and CCPIT-TEX China will serve as a testament to the remarkable progress and growth of the textile industry in Bangladesh and beyond, said the organizers.
This flagship event, they said, promises to be a premier platform for global textile manufacturers, stakeholders, and suppliers.
Renowned as one of the most comprehensive textile exhibitions in Bangladesh, the winter edition of the Dhaka International Yarn and Fabric Show is set to showcase the latest innovations, trends, and technologies in the textile sector.
The 21st edition of the event features a diverse array of exhibitors, including yarn, fabric, trims, and accessory manufacturers, suppliers, exporters, and industry experts, providing visitors with unparalleled opportunities for networking along with business expansion, forging cross-border deals and partnerships.
Exhibitors are presenting their cutting-edge products, materials and services across various segments such as cotton, polyester, viscose, spandex, nylon, and blended yarns, as well as a wide range of fabrics including denim, knitted, woven, printed, and dyed fabrics.
Moreover, the 21st Dhaka International Yarn and Fabric Show 2024 (Winter Edition) and 6th Denim Bangladesh 2024 International Expo will serve as a vital platform for fostering collaboration, business development, and partnerships within the global textile ecosystem, facilitating interactions between key stakeholders and decision-makers to drive industry growth and innovation.
Lokman Hossain Miah, Executive Chairman, Bangladesh Investment Development Authority, was present as the chief guest at the opening ceremony of exhibitions.
Meherun N. Islam, President and Group Managing Director, CEMS Global USA and Asia Pacific and Zhang Tao, Vice President and Secretary General, The Sub- Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT presided over the opening ceremony.
Faruque Hassan, President of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA); Md. Amin Helaly, Senior Vice President of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI); Md. Nuruzzaman, Director General (Additional Secretary) of Department of Textiles – Ministry of Textiles and Jute; Mahbubur Rahman, Director General of the Export Promotion Bureau of Bangladesh; Akhter Hossain Apurba, Vice President of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA); and Song Yang, Commercial Counsellor of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Bangladesh were also present.
These exhibitions showcase the latest technologies, and foster trade relationships, the 21st Dhaka International Yarn & Fabric Show 2024 (Winter Edition) promises to be a pivotal event that redefines the textile and garment industry's trajectory in Bangladesh and beyond.
More than 410 companies from 15 countries with more than 550 booths are taking part in this international exhibition to showcase their new designs, newest trends, and innovative technological breakthroughs in textiles for the benefit of Bangladesh's entire RMG industry.
These exhibitions will be open for the visitors only upon registration every day from 10.00 am to 7.00 pm.
RMG export to EU reaches US$ 13.92bln during July-January
RMG export to the European Union has reached US$ 13.92 billion from July-January of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023-24, according to the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB).
With an increase of 1.32% compared to the same period of previous FY, the export to Spain, France, Netherlands and Poland showed 6.05%, 4.25%, 11.77% and 20.30% growth respectively. However, local apparel exports to Italy declined by 1.81%.
On the other hand, Germany, the largest export market in the EU, reduced its import by 13.46% with an amount of US$ 3.51 billion compared to July-January 2022-23.
BGB thwarts gold smuggling attempt, arrests woman with 11 bars in Chuadanga
The RMG export to the USA declined by 3.90 % with US$ 4.79 billion in the first seventh months of FY 2023-24 .
At the same time, exports to the UK and Canada reached US$ 3.31 billion and US$871.27 million in FY 2023-24, showing an increase by 12.98 % and 0.68% respectively.
During July-January of the FY 2023-24, the apparel export to non-traditional markets went up by 11.69% to US$ 5.46 billion from US$ 4.89 billion in the corresponding period of previous year.
Among the major non-traditional markets, exports to Japan, Australia and South Korea increased by 8.74%, 23% and 17.57% respectively. However, the apparel export to India declined by 21.86%.
BGMEA, MAQI Technology enter into partnership to boost competitiveness in RMG industry
The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and MAQI Technology Group Co Ltd have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at elevating the capabilities and competitiveness of the ready-made garment (RMG) industry through the integration of cutting-edge technology and advanced machinery and developing skills of workers.
The partnership, announced at a ceremony held at Radisson Blu in Dhaka on Saturday, aims to enhance the skills and expertise of RMG workers in operating advanced machines.
BGMEA President Faruque Hassan attended the event as the chief guest.
BGMEA organizes first-ever Bangladesh Heritage Festival 2024 to promote culture, heritage
Focused on providing comprehensive training programs, the partnership seeks to empower RMG workers with the latest skills required to excel in garment sewing.
Leveraging Euromac's state-of-the-art machines and technology, the initiative aims to establish modern lab facilities where aspiring sewing workers can hone their craft under the guidance of experienced instructors.
BGMEA president meets textiles minister to discuss further development of the sector
Euromac will provide advanced machines and technical support to both BGMEA and the BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology (BUFT) to develop the skills and knowledge of both workers in the industry and students at BUFT, empowering them to thrive in the rapidly evolving landscape of garment manufacturing.
BGMEA President Faruque Hassan highlighted the industry's emphasis on leveraging technology, skills, and innovation to diversify products and capture higher-value segments of the global fashion market.
He highlighted the pivotal role of technology and skills development in ensuring the industry's relevance and sustainability in the face of evolving market dynamics.
BGMEA observes Amar Ekushey and International Mother Language Day
The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) observed the solemn occasion of 'Amar Ekushey' and the International Mother Language Day with a rich tribute to the Language Movement martyrs.
BGMEA President Faruque Hassan along with by Senior Vice President S. M. Mannan (Kochi) paid their respects by laying wreaths at the Central Shaheed Minar in Dhaka on Wednesday, said a media statement.To uphold the spirit of Bangla and commemorate the Language heroes, BGMEA took an initiative that the RMG products exporting from Bangladesh tags would have written "Bangladeshe Toiri" alongside "Made in Bangladesh" in English.
Language Martyrs’ Day, International Mother Language Day observed in New Delhi
Now garments with the words "Bangladeshe Toiri" in Bangla, alongside the familiar "Made in Bangladesh" in English written in tags are being exported by Bangladesh to the world.
This distinctive initiative aims to not only celebrate the linguistic heritage of Bangladesh but also to convey a strong message to the world about the country's cultural pride and linguistic identity.
Martyrs' Day and International Mother Language Day observed in Japan
BGMEA organizes first-ever Bangladesh Heritage Festival 2024 to promote culture, heritage
The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) organized the first-ever Bangladesh Heritage Festival 2024 at the BGMEA Complex in the capital’s Uttara on Sunday to promote and celebrate the cultural and heritage treasures of Bangladesh.
State Minister for Commerce Ahsanul Islam Titu attended the opening ceremony as the chief guest.
BGMEA President Faruque Hassan presided over the opening ceremony of the three-day cultural festival that takes place from February 18 to 20.
Charles Whiteley, Ambassador and Head of Delegation of the European Union to Bangladesh, Francisco de Asis Benites Salas, Ambassador of Spain in Bangladesh, renowned artists Mohammad Eunus and Gulshan Hossain attended the opening ceremony which was also joined by BGMEA Directors Asif Ashraf, Barrister Vidiya Amrit Khan and Neela Hosna Ara.
Earlier this day, BGMEA organized a press conference where Faruque Hassan gave an overview of the Bangladesh Heritage Festival 2024, including its features and objectives.
The festival aims to showcase and celebrate the rich cultural and historical heritage of Bangladesh like weaving industry people, Jamdani, Muslin, Khadi, Gamcha, Monipuri cloths, Pottery (Teppa dolls, Shokher Hari, Terracotta), Handicraft, Nakshi Katha, Jute products, Cane, Shitalpati, and the 6th World Heritage recognized Rickshaw Painting and many more.
The event features an exclusive fashion show, cultural performances, exhibitions, art and craftsmanship that make Bangladesh unique. Throughout the festival, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the diverse cultural heritage that Bangladesh has to offer.
A key highlight of the festival is a painting exhibition featuring renowned artists’ works on the ground floor of the BGMEA Complex, showcasing the beauty of the country’s heritage.
A total of 40 stalls are participating in the festival, exhibiting local products that express the essence of Bangladesh’s cultural heritage.
The event also includes a mesmerizing fashion show featuring high-end garments made from Jamdani, Muslin, Khadi, and other traditional fabrics. The festival will also have Bengali folk music performances.
On the first day, renowned actress and dancer Sadia Islam Mou and her troup made dance performance at the festival.
BGMEA President Faruque Hassan emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting Bangladesh’s cultural treasures.
He stated, “By presenting our rich heritage and culture to the world, we can brand ourselves and create an opportunity to export garments linking the rich culture and heritage of Bangladesh with fashion, thus contributing to economic growth. It is crucial to promote heritage products, such as Jamdani, Khadi, and various handlooms internationally.”
Faruque Hassan called upon everyone to use more local products and celebrate the country’s heritage and culture. “Let us all contribute to elevating our beloved motherland to a glorious position in the international arena from our respective positions,” he urged all.
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.