Pineapple fibre, obtained from the leaves of the pineapple plant, is gaining popularity as an environmentally friendly alternative in the global textile industry, with Bangladesh emerging as a major player. Although still in its early phases, some Bangladeshi brands are starting to investigate the potential of this sustainable material. Raw materials are abundant because the plant is widely farmed throughout the country.
Ahmed Khan, a Bangladeshi fashion retailer, observes, “The demand for sustainable textiles is increasing in Bangladesh. Pineapple fibre provides a unique selling point for firms looking to differentiate themselves in the market.”
Desh Garments Ltd. and Prokritee are leading the integration of pineapple fibre into sustainable fashion. Desh Garments combines it with other eco-friendly materials, while Prokritee uses it in artisanal crafts. The market for natural fibres in Bangladesh, including pineapple fibre, is set to grow due to increasing consumer demand for sustainable products and government support.
At the International Textile Machinery (ITM) Exhibition 2024 in Istanbul, Bangladeshi brands showcased their pineapple fibre collections in a dedicated sustainable textiles section, receiving positive feedback from international buyers and establishing Bangladesh as a key player in sustainable fashion.
The Fibre Resource Centre Bangladesh is supporting entrepreneurs Dawood Farhan and Umaima Jahan Dawood, who are spearheading production in Srimongol. They extract fibres from pineapple leaves to make yarn, which is then combined into fabrics such as Pina Silk and Pina cotton. This campaign promotes the environmental benefits of pineapple fibre while also creating economic opportunities for local pineapple farmers.
Since 2007, the Association for Landless and Poor (Alap) has been transforming pineapple leaves into silk jamdani saris, particularly the durable Golden Bangla sarees, with Government support. Executive director Masuda Islam states, “What was once considered waste by farmers is now a source of prosperity. Our work with pineapple fibre is changing lives.”
