At an event organized by BGMEA’s election-centric alliance, Forum in Dhaka, Bangladesh garment makers urged for a separate ministry for the garment and textile sector. Industry leaders at the event emphasised on the need for long-term policies to tackle the multifaceted challenges currently being faced by the sector both locally and globally.
Highlighting the urgency of establishing clear directives to ensure the sustainability of the garment industry, industry representatives warned, any failure to implement such measures could jeopardise the sector’s survival.
Emphasizing on the importance of policy support for a sustained period, Mahmud Hasan Khan Babu, Panel Leader, Forum, said, ongoing domestic and foreign conspiracies against the sector such as the recurrent labor unrest need to be investigated. The government needs to help alleviate the harassment faced by entrepreneurs from customs inspections, he adds.
Voicing concerns over the government’s lack of understanding of the business dynamics, Anisur Rahman Sinha, Former President, BGMEA, asserted, it is the association’s responsibility to engage with the Government to address these issues. The lack of attention to international trade challenges is leading to a growing frustration among business owners, he noted.
Anwar-ul Alam Chowdhury, Former President, BGMEA emphasised on the need for skilled leadership to navigate crisis situations in the industry. Urging for a comprehensive policy framework, Rubana Huq, Former President, highlighted the need for owners to enhance their bargaining power with foreign buyers to secure fair prices.
The event concluded with Rashid Ahmed Hosaini, Secretary General, Forum, emphasizing on the need for immediate action to support the industry. The health of the garment sector is closely linked to Bangladesh’s economic sustainability, he said.
