Ananta Companies is a prominent corporation in Bangladesh, well-renowned for its significant role in the ready-made garment (RMG) industry and its diverse range of operations. Since its inception, Ananta has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainable business practices, earning a solid reputation both locally and internationally. Under the leadership of Inamul Haq Khan (Bablu), the company has garnered numerous prestigious awards, with the National Export Trophy being the most notable.
Ananta operates state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities that adhere to international standards, enabling the production of high-quality garments for renowned global brands. Ananta Garments Ltd & Sportswear Ltd., its sister concerns, were both recognized with LEED Platinum status for their outstanding score of 89 in the O + M: Existing Building (V4.1) category, while its third company, Ananta Jeanswear Limited, achieved LEED Platinum status with a remarkable score of 90 in the same category, according to the USGBC.
Additionally, under Khan’s leadership, the company has engaged in hundreds of commendable CSR activities, extending its impact beyond business operations to make significant contributions to society. Ananta continues to demonstrate versatility and strategic growth, solidifying its position as a leader in the RMG sector.
Khan, a seasoned expert in the RMG industry, has an impressive 34 years of extensive experience and has been awarded the Commercially Important Person (CIP) status eight times. Before transitioning to the garment sector, he dedicated 15 years of service to the merchant navy while at sea with the Bangladesh Shipping Corporation, where he eventually retired honorably as Chief Marine Engineer.
Recently, the Textile Focus team had the opportunity to meet with Inamul Haq Khan (Bablu), Managing Director of Ananta Companies, to discuss various issues affecting the RMG industry. Key points from our discussion are highlighted below for our readers –
Inamul Haq Khan (Bablu), Managing Director, Ananta Companies
Textile Focus: How are you observing the country situation after a massive reformation?
Inamul Haq Khan When discussing the garment sector, we can see that, much like the rest of Bangladesh celebrated its recent independence, a similar wave of joy has also permeated the garment industry. We have also observed a renewed sense of excitement among buyers, who are now able to source products from Bangladesh once again. This is contributing positively to the country’s branding.
Currently, if the interim government can efficiently manage its activities, we are all optimistic that there will be a positive economic change in the country. Alongside this, we also expect that no elections should be held until the country’s situation stabilizes. An elected government should be formed based on the people’s opinions, and if that requires some additional time after much-needed reform, they should take it. During this period, we, the RMG (ready-made garment) owners, are trying to organize ourselves as much as possible, focusing on safe factories and compliance. We believe that our factories are as safe as those in Vietnam and Cambodia, if not safer, globally. Various statistics in the industry have consistently highlighted these significant aspects. We are receiving positive responses from buyers, including reviews, throughout the entire RMG sector in the country.
Textile Focus: What is the role of Trade Bodies for boosting exports?
Inamul Haq Khan: When we talk about trade bodies, the first thing that comes to mind is organizations like BTMA, BGMEA, BKMEA, etc. The fundamental issue here is that there needs to be a proper fair election but we often do not see this. The president is usually pre-selected, and typically nominated by the government. This means the trade bodies operate under governmental policy. This is not desirable for everyone involved. Therefore, trade bodies should always operate and manage their activities independently and altruistically, benefiting both the country and our industry.
However, there are concerns about honesty and transparency in a sector that generates significant foreign currency revenue globally. Typically, trade bodies are dominated by government-affiliated individuals, with little or no representation from opposition parties, which creates a one-sided approach that jeopardizes the effectiveness of these organizations. For this reason, I believe that in a democratic and independent country, trade bodies must function autonomously. Nonetheless, we have consistently noted that our people, including the general public and various like-minded stakeholders, have steadfastly advocated and supported the garment industry. Despite various challenges, we have successfully transported garments safely throughout different regions of the country. As industry owners, we will always strive to maximize foreign currency revenue from abroad, and the government should unwaveringly support us in achieving this target.
Textile Focus: As a leading exporter, what are your expectations from the interim government?
Inamul Haq Khan: We do not have the ability to influence the dollar exchange rate or government policies. However, we must prevent data manipulation. It’s essential to maintain a balance in our per capita income relative to population growth. Our actual population figures are uncertain; if these were questionably reported as lower, per capita income and GDP would appear inflated, benefiting certain vested interests. However, such manipulation ultimately harms us. By 2027, we are set to achieve middle-income country status, but whether we can sustain that position remains uncertain, especially since the previous government did not take necessary steps to support this goal.
In addition to the RMG sector, the IT industry holds significant potential for Bangladesh, with various entrepreneurs launching promising start-ups. Moreover, we need to pay greater attention to the jute industry. This requires increasing the availability of raw materials and strengthening backward linkages. Additionally, waste from leather industry tanneries must be treated through Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs) before being released into the environment. If this waste is discharged untreated, it poses serious environmental and health hazard risks. Currently, many buyers, such as H&M, are interested in sourcing leather from Bangladesh, but they require that waste be processed through ETPs. Lastly, the pharmaceutical industry has a strong infrastructure, producing high-quality medicines locally. Bangladesh currently exports medicine to more than 150 countries, spanning regions such as Europe, America, the Middle East, and Central Asia. So, government policies should support this industry to boost exports and tap into the massive global pharmaceutical market.
The government must prioritize the development of all these industries so that, alongside RMG, we can generate substantial export revenue from other sectors, contributing to the country’s overall well-being.
Textile Focus: What lies ahead for Ananta Companies and Bangladesh as a whole in light of the current circumstances?
Inamul Haq Khan: Our future strategy as a company centers on maintaining accurate cost management, ensuring we do not exceed limits that could jeopardize sustainability. Additionally, we recognize the critical importance of diversifying our product offerings and expanding our range, as this is essential for value addition.
Bangladesh currently exports garments that account for approximately 84% of the country’s export basket, but it urgently needs to diversify the focus area into other global markets. Our economy is heavily dependent on the RMG industry, which is considered highly risky; therefore, any problems in this sector could result in a major disaster for the entire country. We should focus more on man-made fibers, as there is significant potential for growth in this area. With respect to textile fabric production, we are lagging behind in the woven industry, but we excel in the knit industry. By focusing on man-made fibers, we would definitely be able to secure more orders from buyers. As a cotton-based country, cotton products will remain important and ongoing, but we must also incorporate man-made fiber products into our country’s portfolio.
Lastly, Ananta Companies has established itself as a key player in the garment industry, recognized for its commitment to quality, innovation, and ethical practices. Over the years, the company has grown significantly, both in terms of scale and reputation, by consistently delivering high-quality products to global markets. Ananta’s emphasis on compliance, safety, and sustainability has not only enhanced its standing in the industry but also significantly contributed to the positive perception of Bangladesh as a reliable sourcing destination. By consistently investing in state-of-the-art facilities, a skilled workforce, and sustainable practices, Ananta Companies drives growth through the synergy of efficiency and Kaizen, setting benchmarks in the competitive garment sector and reinforcing its position as an industry leader.
