BGMEA flags Iran-Israel war as RMG threat
Staff Reporter :
The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel may pose a fresh challenge to Bangladesh’s readymade garment (RMG) sector by increasing the cost of doing business, warned Mahmud Hasan Khan Babu, the newly elected president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA).
Speaking during his inaugural address at the BGMEA office in Dhaka on Monday, Babu said the Middle East conflict could lead to a surge in global oil prices, which would, in turn, escalate operational expenses for Bangladesh’s key export industry.
“Rising oil prices will increase our transportation, production, and utility costs,” Babu noted.
“We must prepare for external shocks while strengthening internal efficiencies.”
The newly elected BGMEA board of directors, led by President Mahmud Hasan Khan, officially assumed office for the 2025-2027 term. The board includes: First Vice President: Selim Rahman, Senior Vice President: Enamul Haque Khan, Vice President: Md. Rezwan Selim, Vice President (Finance): Mizanur Rahman, Vice Presidents: Bhidia Amrit Khan, Md. Shihab Uddoza Chowdhury, and Mohammad Rafiq Chowdhury
Mahmud Hasan Khan took over leadership from BGMEA Administrator Anwar Hossain at the handover ceremony.
In his address, Babu pledged to improve the organization’s services for its members. One of his first policy announcements was a 25% reduction in membership subscription fees, effective from July 2025.
He emphasized unity in the sector, calling on all members-including leaders from different political panels and former presidents-to work together as a “family of the garment industry,” putting aside internal divisions.
Babu also reiterated BGMEA’s commitment to achieving the ambitious USD $100 billion export target, stressing the need to overcome both global and domestic challenges. He urged the government to: Pause SDG graduation, Simplify customs clearance, Improve the ease of doing business
To promote transparency and accountability, the new president pledged to launch a digital platform where members can access service-related information and updates.
Outgoing BGMEA Administrator Anwar Hossain presented a detailed statement of earnings and expenditures during his tenure.
Several former BGMEA presidents were present at the ceremony and offered their support to the new leadership. Speakers included Anisur Rahman Sinha, Rubana Hoque, Faruque Hassan, Moniruzzaman, Fazlur Rahman, and Rafiqul Islam.
The event marked a unified call for collaboration across generations of leadership to safeguard the future of Bangladesh’s garment sector amid shifting global dynamics.