Motex Fashion is a 100% export-oriented garments factory in Bangladesh. Founded as a joint venture apparel sourcing company in 2012, Motex transitioned into a knit-based factory in 2017. Recently Textile conversed with Motex Fashion Managing Director, Masud Kabir. He plays a pivotal role in guiding Motex Fashion’s strategic direction and overseeing the daily operations of their brands. Read the full conversation-
Textile Focus: Currently, the apparel sector is experiencing a high volume of orders on one hand, but on the other, production costs are rising daily. Additionally, the industry is facing several challenges due to various demands from workers. How do you view this situation?
Masud Kabir: It is true that the current order flow is quite strong, whereas post-COVID, there was a significant gap in the market, especially in countries like the USA and Europe, due to inflation and reduced buying capacity. However, the market is gradually stabilizing. Additionally, with the Trump administration returning to power and ongoing tensions with China, Bangladesh’s market is experiencing a positive flow.
Our country has approximately 4.5 million skilled workers, which plays a crucial role in attracting orders. However, many factory owners are losing hope. About 15-20 years ago, there were over 4,000 industries, but that number has significantly declined despite new entrepreneurs entering the field.
We need to analyze why, despite receiving high order volumes, industries are shutting down. Some key areas require focus, particularly investment—whether from banks or private ownership. As entrepreneurs, we are facing an unstable situation where every positive development is accompanied by multiple negative challenges. If we can address key issues such as government policies, banking support, labor concerns, and energy crises, we can stabilize our position in the global market.
Textile Focus: As a manufacturer, how do you see the current order volume in the apparel sector?
Masud Kabir: There are specific seasons for order placements. Right now, in March and April, we are producing for the winter season. However, in two months, the situation will change as the shipping season begins. If issues like excessive load shedding or worker unrest arise, timely delivery will be impossible. While we are happy to receive orders, we are more concerned about maintaining lead times and overcoming banking complications.
Textile Focus: Motex Fashion’s primary product is sweaters. How is the current market for sweaters? What opportunities do you see, and what types of products are in demand?
Masud Kabir: Motex Fashion is one of the best-known fashion companies, not only in Bangladesh but also globally. That’s why our brands are available wherever customers seek them: from small towns to major cities and online, spanning across multiple countries worldwide.Our product has some limitations since sweaters are winter-based items, and orders come only during specific seasons. We mainly receive orders from the USA, Canada, Australia, and parts of Europe. To cover the low season, we are developing special products for markets in India, the Middle East, and other regions where we are trying to expand exports.
Textile Focus: What kind of government support do you think is needed to sustain the business?
Masud Kabir: The government does have policies for the industry, but the main issue is the slow process. In exports, delays due to customs, ports, and bond-related issues are a major challenge that we struggle to overcome. Additionally, during the summer season, there is a severe energy crisis, forcing us to run production on generators, which significantly increases costs and affects overall profitability.
Textile Focus: What kind of leadership do you expect for SME industries in the upcoming BGMEA elections that would be beneficial for them?
Masud Kabir: BGMEA is a trade body that represents the industry in discussions with the government. Unfortunately, for the past 15-16 years, it has not played that role effectively and has mostly focused on actions that please the government. However, we are noticing some positive changes now, with the BGMEA elections scheduled for May 28, 2025.
We are hopeful that BGMEA will have strong and capable leadership. Additionally, if there are any irregularities within the industry, BGMEA should be able to take the necessary steps. What we need is an elected leadership that prioritizes serving the industry. We are looking forward to seeing a leadership that benefits the apparel sector and contributes to the country’s overall progress.
