The BGMEA election is scheduled for May 28, 2025, with three organizations of garment owners—Oikko Parishad, Shommilito Parishad, and Forum—participating in the race. However, a key issue in the election campaigns and discussion meetings is the absence of representatives from Bangladesh Bank, NBR (National Board of Revenue), the Ministry of Commerce, and private and public banks. This lack of involvement is a significant drawback in addressing the challenges faced by the ready-made garment (RMG) sector.
Why is the Participation of Relevant Authorities Necessary?
🔹 Direct Discussion on Business Challenges:
BGMEA members face numerous business challenges, including bank loans, export processes, tax complexities, LC (Letter of Credit) issues, dollar shortages, and labor laws. If representatives from relevant government and private institutions are involved in the election campaigns, these issues can be directly discussed, making it easier to find solutions.
🔹 Elections Are Not Just About Leadership Selection but Also Development Plans:
The BGMEA election is not merely about forming a new leadership committee; it is an opportunity to set future directions for the entire industry. Business leaders and policymakers must come together to ensure comprehensive development strategies.
🔹 Laying the Groundwork for the New Leadership:
If different stakeholders’ opinions are gathered before the election, the newly elected committee can take immediate action upon assuming office. Otherwise, they will have to start discussions from scratch, leading to delays and inefficiencies.
🔹 Raising Awareness About Government Policies and Benefits:
Many BGMEA members are unaware of how to utilize government incentives, loan facilities, and policy support effectively. If Bangladesh Bank, NBR, the Ministry of Commerce, and private and public banks are directly involved in pre-election discussions, members will gain clearer insights to improve their businesses.
The Need to Invite Relevant Authorities to Election Campaigns
The BGMEA election is not just a contest among garment owners; it is crucial for the overall economy. Therefore, representatives from the following institutions should be invited to campaign meetings and discussions:
✅ Bangladesh Bank: Discussions on export earnings, dollar crises, and banking issues
✅ NBR: Tax policies, duty benefits, VAT, and customs regulations
✅ Ministry of Commerce: Export growth and market expansion
✅ Government and private banks: Loan facilities and investment discussions
Expanding BGMEA’s Global Reach
The RMG industry has expanded significantly, and establishing international BGMEA branches is now a necessity. Involving successful expatriate Bangladeshi entrepreneurs in discussions can facilitate this process, making it easier and faster to set up overseas chapters.
A Call for a Fair and Productive BGMEA Election
The BGMEA election should not be viewed merely as a vote-based contest but rather as a platform for the growth and advancement of the garment industry. By ensuring the participation of relevant government and private institutions in election campaigns, the new leadership can be more effective in addressing industry challenges and implementing long-term solutions.“I have witnessed every BGMEA election since 1980. My father was one of the pioneers in uniting garment owners under BGMEA. Based on my real-life experience, I am sharing these thoughts—not as an imposition, but as a sincere suggestion. The decision ultimately lies with the garment owners and industry leaders. I wish for a fair and successful BGMEA election.”
