The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and US-based apparel importer Amerex Group have discussed a partnership to upscale Bangladesh's apparel industry's capabilities, including in the area of innovation. BGMEA President Faruque Hassan met Ira Ganger, president and CEO of Amerex Group, in New York recently. Former BGMEA president Md Shafiul Islam, BGMEA Director Abdullah Hil Rakib and Brian McElwain, executive vice-president of sourcing purchasing and production of Amerex, were also present. READ: BGMEA wants to increase RMG exports to Canada, promote positive image The BGMEA delegation shared the present situation of Bangladesh's ready-made garment (RMG) industry and its strategic priorities – especially in the areas of industry innovation, efficiency and capacity optimisation. They also highlighted the industry's increased focus on product diversification – namely, non-cotton and high-end segments. READ: BGMEA chief invites Canadian businessmen to invest in Bangladesh A new centre of innovation, efficiency and occupational safety and health is being established at the BGMEA headquarters in Uttara to enhance the competitiveness of the RMG industry of Bangladesh.