DHAKA, Sep 3, 2025 (BSS) - Representatives of the Buyers Forum and leaders of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) met in a joint meeting for a significant dialogue aimed at strengthening sustainable supply chains in the global fashion industry.

The primary focus of this meeting was on partnership strategies and moving forward on the path of sustainable development for the apparel industry.

The meeting was held today at the BGMEA Complex in Uttara with the participation of representatives from more than 40 brands.

Discussions focused on how apparel brands and BGMEA could enhance cooperation in various areas to ensure a sustainable supply chain, said a press release.

On behalf of BGMEA, the discussions were led by its President, Mahmud Hasan Khan, along with First Vice President Selim Rahman; Vice President Md. Rezoan Selim; Vice President (Finance) Mizanur Rahman; Vice President Vidya Amrit Khan; Vice President Md. Shihab Uddoja Chowdhury; Directors Shah Raeed Chowdhury, Mohammad Abdur Rahim, Faisal Samad, Md. Hasib Uddin, Mohammad Abdus Salam, Nafis-ud-Doula, Sumaiya Islam, Majumdar Arifur Rahman, Sheikh Hossain Mohammad Mostafiz, Kazi Mizanur Rahman, Dr. Rashid Ahmed Hossaini, Rumana Rashid, Mohammad Sohel, Samiha Azim; Chairman of BGMEA Standing Committee on BGMEA Branding Khan Monirul Alam (Shubho); Chairman of BGMEA Standing Committee on Buyers Forum Mashed Rahman Abdullah; and Chairman of BGMEA Standing Committee on One Stop Cell Mozammel Haque Bhuiyan.

Key discussion points included:  20% tariff imposed by the United States on Bangladeshi apparel products; Introduction of a Unified Code of Conduct; Product diversification; Labor reforms; Renewable energy adoption; Bangladesh’s preparation for LDC graduation; Challenges of the GSP Plus threshold, among other relevant issues.

On behalf of the Buyers Forum, emphasis was placed on logistics development, resolving complexities related to NBR and customs, ensuring sustainable and internationally compliant labor practices, and prioritizing environmental sustainability to ensure a sustainable supply chain.

One of BGMEA’s major agendas was to seek cooperation and support from apparel brands in formulating a Unified Code of Conduct, which would benefit all stakeholders across the supply chain.

BGMEA Director Nafis-ud-Doula made a power-point presentation showing how a Unified Code of Conduct could simplify the audit process, reduce pressure on factories, and make the industry more ethical, sustainable, and responsible.

Labor reform received special emphasis in the discussions. 

BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan highlighted recent progress in labor reforms in Bangladesh, stating that these reforms were not only to meet international standards but also to ensure a sustainable and safe industrial environment. 

He called on brands to work as partners in this positive transformation of Bangladesh’s apparel industry.

BGMEA leaders also urged brands to increase sourcing from Bangladesh and to strengthen partnerships with suppliers in producing more innovative and high-quality products.

Buyers Forum representatives noted the huge growth potential in the industry through fashion designing. 

They suggested opening up a Technical Design Section at BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology (BUFT) and employing young fashion designers at the factory level, stating that this is one of the major expectations brands have from Bangladeshi apparel exporters.

The BGMEA leadership called on apparel brands to stand beside entrepreneurs by introducing better pricing models, efficiency models, and supporting the industry in every possible way to make it more competitive and ethically stronger.

Representatives of apparel brands present at the meeting assured their continued support for the development of Bangladesh’s apparel industry.