A BGMEA delegation led by President Mahmud Hasan Khan met today with Dr. Anisuzzaman Chowdhury, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser. The meeting was also attended by Vice Presidents Mizanur Rahman and Md. Shehab Udduza Chowdhury, and Member Md. Kamal Uddin.

Discussions focused on current challenges facing the garment industry, including banking and NBR-related issues, gas shortages, renewable energy, Chattogram port efficiency, trade license complications, ERC-IRC renewal difficulties, and harassment under RAJUK’s DAP regulations.

The BGMEA urged that the grace period under Bangladesh Bank’s loan classification policy be extended from 3 months to 6 months. The President also requested a reconsideration of the reduction in cash incentives, terming it untimely.

Recommendations were made to consider the 1% tax at source as the final tax and to reinstate the pre-shipment credit scheme. Additionally, a proposal was made to establish a forced fund against exports.

BGMEA called upon the NBR to formulate industry-friendly policies to simplify customs procedures and reduce lead times. There were also discussions on connecting Bhola gas to the national grid and increasing LNG imports to address the ongoing gas crisis.

The delegation expressed interest in developing solar power projects on government-owned land and waterbodies under public-private partnership (PPP), as well as establishing housing, hospitals, and schools for workers in Gazipur and Ashulia.

BGMEA leaders also requested the revival of the garments village project in Munshiganj and allocation of land in Chattogram to establish an industrial zone for small and medium factories.

Dr. Anisuzzaman Chowdhury assured that the government recognizes the importance of the apparel sector and will continue to provide all possible support to it.