Faruque Hassan, President of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) paid a call on R. A. M. Obaidul Muktadir Chowdhury, MP, Minister of Housing and Public Works at the secretariat in Dhaka on February 22.

Their discussions primarily focused on the current state and future prospects of Bangladesh’s ready-made garment industry.

The meeting, also attended by former President of BGMEA Md. Shafiul Islam Mohiuddin, Director Neela Hosna Ara, and Chair of BGMEA Standing Committee on Labour and ILO Affairs ANM Saifuddin, included discussions about the challenges and opportunities facing the RMG industry.

Kazi Wasi Uddin, Secretary at the Ministry of Housing and Public Works, and Mohammad Shamim Akhter, Chief Engineer at the Public Works Department were present at the meeting.

BGMEA President Faruque Hassan highlighted the significant progress made by the industry, especially in terms of workplace safety and environmental sustainability. 

He emphasized the RMG industry’s transition towards sustainable business practices, particularly the growing number of energy-efficient and environmentally friendly garment factories in Bangladesh.

Currently, Bangladesh boasts the highest number of green garment buildings globally, with 207 factories LEED certified by the US Green Building Council (USGBC). Of these, 77 are Platinum rated and 116 are Gold rated.

President Faruque Hassan expressed optimism that the industry’s green transition would enhance Bangladesh’s competitive edge in the global market and solidify its position as a leader in sustainable garment manufacturing. 

However, he underscored the importance of government support, including policy assistance and easy access to finance, to further facilitate the growth of green industries in the country.

During the meeting, Faruque Hassan also sought Minister Obaidul Muktadir’s assistance in ensuring faster and seamless services from government bodies, particularly Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (RAJUK), for the RMG entrepreneurs.

He urged the government to streamline business-related laws and regulations, including taxation, value-added tax (VAT), and other facets of cross-border trade, in order to facilitate a more business-friendly environment.