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The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has sought Germany’s support for the continuation of duty- and quota-free access for Bangladeshi goods to the European Union for a period of 12 years, following the country's graduation from LDC status in 2026.
The continuation of the benefits is essential to ensure a smooth transition out of the LDC status for Bangladesh. At present it is able to avail the benefits under the EU's Everything But Arms initiative for LDCs.
BGMEA President Faruque Hassan made the request during a meeting with the newly appointed Ambassador of Germany Achim Troster on Monday.
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BGMEA Vice President Shahidullah Azim, Vice President Miran Ali and Caren Blume, Head of Development Section at the German Embassy, were also present.
The BGMEA President welcomed the new German Ambassador and apprised him of the present situation of Bangladesh’s apparel industry, its challenges, opportunities and future priorities.
Highlighting the progress made by the industry in the areas of workplace safety, environmental sustainability and workers' welfare, Faruque Hassan requested the envoy to promote the RMG industry positively to his government, buyers and other relevant stakeholders.
BGMEA President Faruque Hassan thanked Ambassador Achim Troster for the German government’s friendly support to the betterment of the Bangladesh RMG industry.
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They expressed willingness about more collaboration for further development of Bangladesh garment industry, especially in the area of sustainability.