According to Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), different non-tariff measures such as anti-dumping, countervailing, safeguard measures being imposed by the developed nations are making an adverse impact on the knitwear manufacturers and exporters of Bangladesh.

Speaking at a seminar organised in association with Bangladesh Tariff Commission on problems and measures regarding non-tariff measures for ready-made garments industry held at BKMEA's main office in Narayanganj this week, the speakers said the manufacturers and exporters in developing countries lack the key information, facilities and capabilities. Meanwhile, the complex requirements of a variety of non-tariff measures have made it expensive and difficult of the manufacturers and exporters.

BKMEA Director Md Habibur Rahman said the buyers impose conditions on the manufacturers of buying raw materials from certain firms, which also have negative impacts on the capacity of the manufacturers. Former vice-president of BKMEA, Md Hatem said Bangladesh's garment factories are also subjected to strong compliance and production cost is increasing due to the compliances despite no increase in the export earnings.

According to Apurba Sikder, Director of Wisdom Attires, the export products are also subjected to different kinds of certification and the samples have to be sent abroad due to the lack of adequate number of accredited laboratories, causing delay in shipments.

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