Leaders in the industry emphasised at a recent conference the critical need for coordinated action to safeguard Bangladesh’s ready-made garment (RMG) sector, which is a key component of the country’s economic expansion.
The conversation happened at the Chittagong Customs House during a courtesy call by officials of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) to the recently appointed Customs Commissioner, Md. Zakir Hossain.
Syed Nazrul Islam, the first vice president of the BGMEA, commended the customs authority for playing a crucial role in bolstering the nation’s top export industry. According to him, “Customs has been a dependable partner in our accomplishments, consistently providing support that has enabled us to significantly contribute to the economy through foreign exchange earnings.”
Senior representatives from the Chittagong Custom House and BGMEA directors, including M. Ehsanul Haque, Mohammad Musa, Rakib Al Nasser, and Gazi Md. Shahidullah, were also in attendance. They discussed the different issues that the apparel sector is now facing, such as pressures from both the domestic and international fronts.
Nazrul Islam pointed out that labour unrest has recently had an impact on the industry, which is crucial for social stability and national employment. He brought up the ongoing strikes and factory closures in major industrial areas like Ashulia and Gazipur, which have caused orders from overseas clients to be withdrawn. “The apparel business as well as the overall economy may suffer greatly if this situation continues. We must all work to prevent the catastrophic consequences that would result from this sector collapsing,” he said.
Amidst the discussion, he also requested assistance from the customs authorities in averting delays and mitigating concerns pertaining to inconsistencies in import-export procedures, promoting streamlined protocols to guarantee prompt shipment execution.
Commissioner Md. Zakir Hossain recognised the apparel industry’s important role in the development of the economy and the generation of jobs in the country. He gave the BGMEA leaders his word that the Customs House would do all in its power to address current issues and expedite the processing of products. “We are committed to resolving any concerns via cooperative dialogue and guaranteeing seamless operations to maintain the expansion of this essential sector,” he declared.
