Business Report :
Textile and apparel industry captains identified partnership, innovation, and product development as the key factors to propel Bangladesh’s T and A industry to the top. Leaders discuss this at the 17th Bangladesh Denim Expo.
Showkat Aziz Russell, President, Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA) said, “As the representative of BTMA, I am proud to share that our industry has invested a significant $23 billion. We’re on a positive trajectory, but challenges persist. Ensuring a consistent supply of gas and energy is crucial for our continued growth. Amidst the ongoing transition, we can collaborate and share ideas to further elevate the industry’s performance.”
Anwar Hossain, Administrator, BGMEA and Vice Chairman, Export Promotion Bureau, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh said, “While the Bangladesh apparel industry has made significant progress, it still has room for improvement, particularly in the area of man-made fiber production. To counteract the negative perception of the industry, we must actively promote the numerous positive practices and initiatives undertaken by manufacturers.”
Antonio Alessandro, Italian Ambassador to Bangladesh said, “Italy boasts a rich heritage in denim, fashion, and innovation. While Bangladesh has already established itself as a global leader in denim production, there’s still room for further collaboration and growth.”
“To strengthen this partnership, we propose establishing a technology center in Bangladesh to enhance local skills and knowledge. By increasing trade and investment, we can further elevate the industry.”
“To elevate the fashion and design aspects of the industry, greater collaboration with Italian experts is essential. By sharing knowledge and expertise, we can enhance the overall value proposition of Bangladeshi denim products,” Antonio Alessandro added.
“Restrictive policies are hindering our ability to diversify into new areas of the textile industry,” Showkat Aziz Russell added.
Abhishek Nath, Country Director, Lidl and Kaufland Asia said, “The textile and apparel industry has made significant strides in sustainability, with a substantial number of Green factories. However, navigating the increasingly stringent EU regulations will require enhanced transparency and compliance. To effectively address these challenges, policymakers should prioritize awareness, education, and industry readiness.”
Manish Chauhan, Chairman, Noize Jeans said, “The ultimate goal is to achieve net-zero emissions. This requires a shift towards sustainable raw materials and process optimization to reduce CO2 emissions. By implementing these strategies, we can reduce power consumption by up to 80% while maintaining cost-effectiveness.”