TBT DESK:
In a bid to ensure the sustainable growth of Bangladesh's apparel and textile sector, industry owners have called for the establishment of a separate ministry. They argue that, as the country's largest export earner, the sector faces mounting global and domestic challenges that require long-term policy support.
Speaking at a discussion and Iftar gathering at a Dhaka hotel on Saturday, members of the BGMEA election alliance, Forum, expressed their concerns over the sector's future. Business leaders at the event criticised past practices within the BGMEA, stating that the organisation had been reduced to a political office, tarnishing its reputation. They stressed the need to restore its lost credibility.
During the discussion, garment entrepreneurs urged that those elected to lead BGMEA must not merely be card-carrying directors but must demonstrate a firm commitment to the sector. They warned against undue government influence, insisting that BGMEA should focus on industry welfare rather than political alliances. Without proper leadership, they cautioned, the industry's survival would be at risk.
Forum panel leader Mahmud Hasan Khan Babu underscored the necessity of policy support for a defined period to help the apparel industry navigate persistent domestic and international challenges. He pointed to frequent labour unrest, suggesting that political motives might be involved, as genuine workers would not jeopardise their own livelihoods. He also urged customs authorities to end harassment during inspections and reiterated the need for a separate ministry to implement sustainable policies.
Forum Secretary General Rashid Ahmed Hossaini highlighted election irregularities, revealing that nearly 700 fraudulent voters had been identified and disqualified-a matter of great embarrassment, he said. He stressed that the upcoming election must be fair and transparent, warning that without the apparel sector, Bangladesh's economy could not thrive. "BGMEA must not become a political headquarters," he insisted. During the event, Forum President Abdus Salam and other industry leaders outlined the major challenges faced by garment manufacturers.
With the BGMEA election set for 28 May, the Election Conducting Board has already announced the official schedule. The deadline for nomination submission is 24 April, while general members must clear their outstanding fees by 29 March.
As the election approaches, industry stakeholders are watching closely, hopeful that a leadership change could bring much-needed reforms to Bangladesh's most crucial export sector.