TBT DESK: In anticipation of the upcoming 2025-27 BGMEA election, the Forum panel has unveiled a nine-point strategic proposal aimed at bolstering the future of Bangladesh's garment industry. The proposals were presented on Sunday by Mahmud Hasan Khan (Babu), panel leader of the Forum and Managing Director of Rising Group, during a press conference at a hotel in the capital.
The strategy focuses on addressing current challenges while ensuring sustainable growth and competitiveness in the global market.
Among the key proposals is the formation of a separate ministry dedicated to the readymade garment (RMG) sector, which the Forum believes will enable more tailored and effective policymaking. It also calls for enhanced support to SMEs, non-bonded factories, and new entrepreneurs, recognising their role in industry diversification and employment generation.
The Forum stressed the need to accelerate customs automation to streamline export processes and reduce delays. In terms of compliance, it recommended stricter enforcement of safety standards, labour rights, and environmental safeguards.
Other proposals include ensuring that only genuine exporters are granted BGMEA membership, expanding export markets and diversifying products, and introducing clear accountability mechanisms for elected representatives.
To tackle future uncertainties, the Forum has proposed establishing crisis management cells in industrial zones. It also emphasised the importance of formulating a formal exit policy to facilitate the r esponsible closure of struggling factories.
"These proposals are designed to prepare the garment sector for the challenges of tomorrow while safeguarding the interests of all stakeholders," said Mahmud Hasan Khan at the event.
The Forum hopes that its strategic roadmap will guide the sector toward a more resilient and globally competitive future.