The Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA) is pushing for a major shift in the industry, transforming garment waste into recyclable materials. President Mohammad Ali Khokon believes this move could slash cotton imports by 15 per cent, a significant step towards self-sufficiency. While efforts are already underway, with 40 factories like Simco Spinning and Beximco actively involved, it's still a drop in the bucket. Only 5 per cent of garment waste is currently recycled for export-worthy products.

This initiative finds strong support from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA). President Faruque Hassan has called for a ban on cotton waste exports, emphasizing the need to break dependence on imported cotton, which currently stands at 98 per cent.

However, challenges remain. Financing and taxation are major hurdles, particularly the 22 per cent VAT levied on garment waste collection and recycled yarn sales. BTMA and BGMEA leaders are urging the government for policy and tax support to incentivize recycling.

A proposed scheme providing low-cost financial assistance to the industry could be the key to unlocking its full potential. By tackling these obstacles and embracing garment waste conversion, Bangladesh can significantly reduce its reliance on foreign cotton and boost its textile industry's sustainability.