Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan on Monday emphasized the vital role of Bangladesh's export-oriented industries in shaping the country’s global brand and identity.

“Today, ‘Made in Bangladesh’ is a symbol of pride in the international market,” she said.

To maintain this reputation, Rizwana urged the garment industry to take a more proactive role in environment-friendly production, protection of labor rights, and sustainable management practices.

She made the remarks while speaking virtually at an event titled “The Potentiality of Bangladesh RMG Sector: The Way Forward”, held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Center in Purbachal, as part of the Global Sourcing Expo 2025.

The event was organized by the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA).

Rizwana said compliance with labour laws, ensuring a safe working environment, efficient water management, and strong governance in waste management are now essential to maintaining competitiveness in the global market.

She reiterated the need for minimising water wastage and adopting recycling systems as pollution of rivers and canals, by industrial waste, poses a serious threat to both the environment and the industries.

The environment adviser said the government will be compelled to take strict measures against any violations.

Highlighting Bangladesh's global leadership in sustainability, she noted that the country's garment sector now hosts some of the world's highest numbers of Green Factory certified facilities, which has positioned the sector on the international standard of sustainable development.

"You have set a powerful example," she said.

Rizwana said while the government is working to convert public buildings into green structures, the industrial sector can play a major role in advancing this transformation.

She also underscored the importance of complying with emerging environmental regulations in Europe and the United Kingdom - particularly regarding plastic packaging and supply-chain standards.

The adviser cautioned that global markets are changing rapidly and urged the garment industry to prepare without delay.

 "Failure to adopt sustainable production methods and environmentally friendly packaging could make future competition more challenging," she added.

BKMEA President Mohammad Hatem, along with other leaders and stakeholders, also addressed the event.