Danish Ambassador to Bangladesh Christian Bricks Moller paid a courtesy visit to Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) President Mahmud Hasan Khan at the BGMEA Complex in Dhaka. The meeting focused on the current state of Bangladesh’s ready-made garment (RMG) industry, global market dynamics, challenges faced, and avenues for sustainable development.
During the discussion, Ambassador Moller reaffirmed Denmark’s commitment to development aid, stating that Denmark consistently allocates 0.7% of its GDP to support developing countries, regardless of political or economic challenges.
The officials explored issues related to sustainability and circularity within the garment sector, with an emphasis on enhancing energy efficiency. The BGMEA President sought Denmark’s support in addressing the GSP Plus threshold challenges, which impact Bangladesh’s competitiveness in European markets. He also requested the ambassador’s assistance in engaging EU policymakers to sustain benefits under the GSP Plus scheme.
Expressing concern over a declining trend in garment exports to Denmark from the 2023-24 fiscal year, Mahmud Hasan Khan urged the Danish Government to look into the matter and support efforts to bolster trade relations. He additionally called for Denmark’s proactive role in encouraging global brands to adopt a unified code of conduct for the industry.
The meeting highlighted ongoing Danish-supported projects aimed at green transformation and sustainable growth, including CREATE, PACT, and SWITCH2CE. The discussion also covered energy audits being carried out in Bangladeshi factories, with a focus on ensuring accurate data collection to identify energy-saving opportunities and potential solar panel installations. Ambassador Moller emphasised the benefits these audits could bring to both BGMEA and BKMEA members.
