The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and Polish fashion retailer LPP S.A. have reaffirmed their longstanding partnership and commitment to Bangladesh’s apparel industry, while calling for a fair and orderly resolution to an ongoing business dispute involving claims related to third-party entities.
In a joint statement, the two organizations clarified that the matter concerns alleged unpaid liabilities arising from contracts and invoices to which LPP is not a debtor and is not legally responsible for payment.
LPP said it continues to settle its own contractual obligations with its direct suppliers and business partners in Bangladesh in accordance with applicable contractual terms. The company also emphasized that the recent review of certain sourcing activities in Bangladesh was driven by the need to protect its local employees, ensure legal certainty and maintain a stable and predictable business environment.
According to the statement, the review was not directed against manufacturers and does not affect LPP’s commitment to fulfilling its own direct contractual obligations.
BGMEA and LPP also expressed concern that a dispute involving a limited number of third-party relationships could negatively affect the broader Bangladeshi apparel sector. The two parties noted that more than 350 Bangladeshi manufacturers are currently engaged in business with LPP.
“Both parties therefore consider it important to avoid broad public narratives that could harm uninvolved manufacturers, employees or the long-standing commercial relationship between LPP and Bangladesh,” the joint statement said.
BGMEA said it will engage with relevant ministries, authorities and industry stakeholders to support a fair and orderly process. The association will also support efforts to protect LPP officials and employees from undue harassment, pressure or unfounded proceedings, while respecting lawful proceedings and the rights of parties to pursue legitimate claims.
The two organizations further agreed that any settlement discussions concerning the disputed liabilities should involve the entities legally responsible for those obligations. LPP said it is willing to support constructive dialogue where appropriate, without prejudice to its legal position.
Reaffirming their long-term relationship, BGMEA and LPP pledged to work together to ensure secure, stable and uninterrupted business operations in Bangladesh.
The organizations also reiterated their shared commitment to the continued growth and sustainability of Bangladesh’s apparel sector and to maintaining a fair, transparent and mutually acceptable business environment.
Signatories to the joint statement include Mahmud Hasan Khan, President of BGMEA; Ms. Dorota Jankowska-Tomkow, Director – Purchasing and ESG, LPP S.A.; Mijanur Rahman, Vice President (Finance), BGMEA; and Ms. Anna Staśkiewicz, Country Manager, LPP S.A.
