Ambassador of Spain to Bangladesh, Francisco de Asís Benítez Salas, paid a courtesy call on BGMEA President Faruque Hassan at the latter’s office in Dhaka on August 24.

BGMEA Vice President Shahidullah Azim also attended the meeting.

They had discussions about issues related to the readymade garment industry in Bangladesh, including its progress in the areas of workplace safety, social and environmental sustainability.

Bangladesh is proud to have the highest number of green garment factories in world and more factories are in the process of achieving LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification from US Green Building Council (USGBC).

The BGMEA President apprised the envoy of the priorities of Bangladesh RMG industry, especially more focus on production of valued-added apparel items made from man-made fibre (MMF) and innovation in product development and process optimization.

The discussants also highlighted the future potential of the industry and the need for industry up-grading particularly in the area of skills and efficiency enhancement, technological expertise, and diversification of products (especially non-cotton).

The BGMEA President sought the support from the Embassy of Spain regarding the potential of foreign investment in non-cotton and technical textiles and high-end apparel items.

He also sought support and cooperation of the Government of Spain through extension of transition period for smoother graduation from LDC.

The Ambassador of Spain lauded the progress of the apparel industry of Bangladesh.