A delegation of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) led by President Faruque Hassan met with Gary Cowan, First Assistant Secretary, North and South Asia Division, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) in Canberra, Australia on July 21. 

Bangladesh High Commissioner to Australia H. E. Allama Siddiki, BGMEA Vice President Shahidullah Azim, Director Asif Ashraf were also present at the meeting. 

During the meeting, the focus of their discussion was on possible areas of expanding trade and investment and how both countries could work together to deepen cooperation to realize full potential  

The issue of Bangladesh’s LDC graduation, its implications on the economy and trade and preparations to deal with the challenges also got due importance in the discussion. 

In this regard, Gary Cowan informed the BGMEA delegation of the Australian government’s decision of continuing duty-free market access for Bangladesh even after its LDC graduation. 

The delegation thanked the Australian government for providing the trade privilege, saying it would be a good support to Bangladesh in continuing its development momentum. 

BGMEA President Faruque Hassan mentioned Bangladesh’s interest in increasing import of cotton and wool from Australia to meet the growing demand of its RMG and textile industry.

First Assistant Secretary Gary Cowan assured the visiting delegation of the Australian government’s cooperation in paving the way for trade and investment between the two countries. 

In the meeting, both sides expressed willingness to work together to ensure mutual benefits for Bangladesh and Australia.