RUDOLF is a global leader in developing and producing high-performance specialty chemicals for the textile and construction industries. Founded in 1922, the company has expanded its operations to numerous countries worldwide. The company offers innovative solutions for sustainable textile production, such as biodegradable and recycled materials. The company has a proven track record of developing eco-friendly and sustainable products.
Recently RUDOLF Bangladesh Ltd. has moved to a new office at Gulshan Avenue, Dhaka. With a growing team of textile engineers, RUDOLF will provide better technical supports to its customers. Dr. Oliver Kusterle, the Managing Director of RUDOLF GmbH and Chairman of RUDOLF Bangladesh Ltd., graciously imparted his invaluable insights on the Bangladesh Textile Chemical Industry during his conversation with the Textile Focus Team.
Textile Focus: Can you give a brief on your business in Bangladesh?
Oliver Kusterle: For the past century and today, RUDOLF has been one of the leading suppliers of textile auxiliaries. We have been serving the Bangladesh market since the early 1990s with local distribution partners. In 2014 we set up our liaison office in Dhaka to support our customers with a growing team of local textile engineers. In 2017 we shortened the supply lead time with warehousing in Singapore. All of the above has helped us to grow the business significantly, and we are considered a trusted and leading supplier of innovative textile chemicals to the industry.
Textile Focus: How will the industry benefit from your local manufacturing plant?
Oliver Kusterle: Local manufacturing plants can benefit the textile industry in Bangladesh. These include shorter lead times, increased supply flexibility, and reduced transportation costs. Additionally, this boosts the local economy and creates good-quality jobs for the community.
Textile Focus: What are the specific issues you considered when setting up a plant in Bangladesh?
Oliver Kusterle: Overall, setting up a chemical production plant requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the many factors that can impact the plant’s success. The plant’s location is a critical factor that needs to be considered carefully. We have considered the availability of utilities, access to transportation, and proximity to customers. We have selected Bangladesh Special Economic Zone (BSEZ) in Araihajar, Narayanganj. Here the one-stop service offered by BEZA makes it much easier for a foreign investor like RUDOLF to navigate the regulatory affairs in Bangladesh.
Textile Focus: How do you consider Bangladesh, unlike any other countries like India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, for textiles in the subcontinent?
Oliver Kusterle: All the countries in the subcontinent have a significant textile industry base. Each of these countries has its unique strengths and challenges.
Bangladesh has emerged as a significant player in the global apparel industry, and its strengths in cost competitiveness, sustainable production, government support, and industry expertise set it apart. And due to the clear focus on its core export industry, Bangladesh will remain a key player in the global textile business in the future.
Textile Focus: Is there any specific message you want to mention from your point of view?
Oliver Kusterle: In a competitive industry like ours, maintaining the highest standards of quality and product sustainability is a key differentiator. I want to reassure our local customers that they will get the same quality from the RUDOLF production they are now importing from our plants in Germany and Asia.
