Garment industry owners are calling for the establishment of a separate ministry dedicated to the sustainable development of the textile and apparel sector. They argue that the garment industry is the largest single-sector contributor to export earnings. However, they face numerous global and domestic challenges, which require long-term policy support, making the formation of a dedicated ministry essential.
Speaking at a discussion and iftar gathering held at a hotel in Dhaka on Saturday, garment industry owners highlighted these concerns. The event was organized by the BGMEA electoral alliance “Forum” to engage with general business members. During the event, business leaders expressed their disappointment that BGMEA had previously been turned into a political office, stating that its lost reputation must be restored.
Business leaders emphasized that future BGMEA leadership must not be limited to holding a directorial title but should demonstrate strong commitment. They stressed that rather than aligning with the government, the leadership must prioritize national interests and provide proper guidance for the garment sector; otherwise, the industry will struggle to survive.
At the event, Forum panel leader Mahmud Hasan Khan Babu emphasized the need for policy support for the garment sector for a specific period. He claimed that both domestic and international conspiracies constantly target the sector. Issues like labor unrest are often politically motivated, and it is crucial to investigate whether such disruptions have political backing, as workers would not willingly risk their livelihood. Additionally, he called for an end to harassment by customs authorities and reiterated the demand for a separate ministry to ensure a sustainable policy framework.
Forum General Secretary Rashid Ahmed Hossaini raised concerns about election transparency, mentioning media reports that nearly 700 fake voters had already been identified and their voting rights revoked. He called this a disgrace and urged for a free and fair election, emphasizing that Bangladesh’s economy cannot sustain itself without the garment sector and that BGMEA should not be turned into a political office.
Former BGMEA president Anisur Rahman Sinha stated that the government does not understand business, and it is the responsibility of industry leaders to educate policymakers. He urged BGMEA to play an active role in solving problems affecting international trade, noting that current challenges are not being properly addressed. He warned that garment owners are operating under extreme frustration, and the problem affects everyone.
Another former BGMEA president, Anwar-ul-Alam Chowdhury (Parvez), stressed the need for skilled leadership within BGMEA to navigate crises effectively.
Dr. Rubana Huq, another former BGMEA president, highlighted that industry owners want relief from years of bureaucratic entanglements. She pointed out that BGMEA has faced excessive control in the past and urged for a transparent election to restore its credibility. She also emphasized the need for a comprehensive exit policy for garment owners facing difficulties, noting that while factories may become unviable for various reasons, owners currently have no structured way to exit the industry. Additionally, she urged factory owners to negotiate better prices with foreign buyers.
Forum President Abdus Salam and other industry leaders also discussed the state of the garment sector.
Meanwhile, the BGMEA election is scheduled for May 28. The election board has already announced the schedule: the deadline for submitting nomination papers is April 24, while the last date for general members to clear their dues is March 29.
