Faruque Hassan, President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), held a meeting with Ms. Farzana Afrose, Member (Customs and VAT Admin) of the National Board of Revenue (NBR). 

The meeting, held at the NBR office in Dhaka on January 20, discussed pressing issues affecting the garment industry.

During the meeting, they focused on industry-specific challenges, with a particular emphasis on how ready-made garment (RMG) exporters could receive seamless services from the NBR, especially concerning customs, VAT, and bond-related services. 

The meeting was also attended by Shafiul Islam Mohiuddin, former President of FBCCI and BGMEA, and Md Munir Hossain, Vice President of FBCCI.

BGMEA President Faruque Hassan pointed to the current issues faced by RMG exporters in dealing with customs, bonds, and VAT, particularly in the context of the ongoing global economic situation and tense geopolitical crises. 

He mentioned how the apparel exporters are struggling hard to sustain the RMG industry which is a crucial source of foreign currency earnings for Bangladesh.

Faruque Hassan underscored that any service-related challenges from the NBR could exacerbate the difficulties faced by RMG exporters. 

He urged the NBR to streamline customs procedures and ensure hassle-free services for the garment industry, creating a more efficient and competitive business environment.

In response, Ms. Farzana Afrose assured her full support in addressing the challenges faced by the garment industry.