A cordial and constructive meeting was held at BTMA Gulshan office between BTMA leaders and representatives of the ICF International, USA and the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka. The discussion focused on labour rights, sustainable supply chains and various issues related to international trade.
The BTMA delegation was led by Mr. Hossain Mehmood, Former Vice President of BTMA. During the meeting, Engr. Razeeb Haider, Former Director of BTMA highlighted the current status, future prospects and significant contribution of Bangladesh’s Primary Textile Sector to the country’s economic growth and export competitiveness. He noted that the textile industry as the principal backward linkage sector of RMG industry has been playing a vital role in the country’s industrialization, employment generation and foreign exchange earnings.
He further emphasized that BTMA remains committed to strengthening Bangladesh’s global competitiveness in the post-LDC graduation era by promoting sustainable industrialization and internationally compliant manufacturing practices. The importance of effective private sector participation in expanding trade and investment cooperation between Bangladesh and the United States was also underscored.
The U.S. delegation highlighted the importance of protecting labour rights within global supply chains, adherence to internationally recognized labour standards and enhancing accountability and transparency throughout the supply chain. Views were also exchanged regarding the progress of ongoing labour law and labour policy reform initiatives in Bangladesh.
On behalf of BTMA, it was reiterated that Bangladesh’s textile and apparel sector remains committed to ensuring workers’ rights, workplace safety and welfare in accordance with the core principles of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the provisions of national labour laws. BTMA also emphasized the need for continued constructive collaboration among the Government, industry stakeholders and development partners to implement international labour standards while maintaining the sector’s competitiveness.
Both sides exchanged views on strengthening trade and investment relations between Bangladesh and the United States, promoting sustainable industrial development, developing skilled human resources, improving workers’ welfare and addressing other issues of mutual interest.
Members of the U.S. delegation included Mr. Andrew Korfhage, ICF International and Ms. Leena Khan, Labour Attaché, U.S. Embassy, Dhaka. BTMA Directors Mr. Chowdhury Md. Hanif Shoeb and Engr. Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed were also present at the meeting.
