RMG targets sustainable growth with PET recycling

Kamruzzaman Bablu :

As Western consumers grow increasingly conscious of reducing plastic pollution, a significant number of Bangladeshi apparel companies are planning to produce their own plastic flakes and yarns to meet buyer demands, according to industry insiders.

For several years, many international retailers and brands have requested suppliers to incorporate 25-30 per cent of raw materials made from recycled plastic into finished garment items. In response, Bangladeshi producers are exploring opportunities to become key players in the global market for yarn and fabric made from recycled plastics, as demand continues to rise.

According to the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA), Bangladesh annually imports approximately 1,200 tonnes of polyester staple fibre (PSF), mainly from China. The price of these recycled yarns has risen significantly in the international market. Producing the fibre domestically using reusable PET bottles could save $150 million in foreign exchange by 2030, while boosting the efficient utilisation and export of reusable plastics.

To address this, BTMA has recently written to the Chief Adviser, urging the government to allow the import of recycled plastics and textile waste at a reduced specific duty of 5 per cent. The association also sought policy support to promote non-cotton garment manufacturing and presented an 11-point proposal to support industry growth.

BTMA President Showkat Aziz Russell stated: “Allowing the import of recycled plastics and textile waste with a 5 per cent specific duty as raw materials for producing fibres in the recycling textile industry could add an additional $40-50 billion annually to export earnings. These initiatives could act as import substitutes and significantly boost the economy by generating foreign exchange through exports.”

Russell further called for an immediate ban on the export of PET bottles and flakes to ensure the availability of raw materials for local industries.

Several Bangladeshi companies have already invested heavily in setting up plants to produce flakes from waste plastic bottles, which are then used to manufacture yarn and fabrics. Recycled yarns are increasingly used in high-value garment items such as jerseys, jackets, quilts, padding, and outerwear. However, some local mills, despite starting production, are struggling to secure sufficient raw materials.

This global trend is supported by commitments from renowned multinational companies like Reebok, Pepsi, Nestlé, and Coca-Cola to use flakes and granules derived from recycled plastics in their products, including soft drink bottles and other packaging.