My worst fear… buyers moving away from the country or as often said the net of sourcing destinations being made bigger, restricting the opportunities for growth!
If reports in leading newspapers and feedback from industry are any indication, buyers are hesitating in visiting Bangladesh; many claim that business meetings are happening in Hong Kong and even India…, this could hurt Bangladesh’s plans for reaching new targets set for the industry.
There are quite a few examples where a particular country has stopped growing all because of its political unrest, which in a way becomes a major handicap, especially in global trade. Pakistan and Sri Lanka are recent examples from the sub-continent.
Though Bangladesh has survived through many turbulent times, the damage this time could be deeper and more permanent, leaving a scar if a right remedy is not found immediately… on priority!
The one solution that the industry has found for itself is to move out of the metro cities and the capital in particular, where bandhs and protests have become a way of life, to smaller townships and suburbs around the main cities…, where there is less likelihood of disruption in business.
I have always complimented the industry for its resilience and united approach to find solutions… In my last editorial, too, I expressed similar sentiments and I stand by my belief that Bangladesh has a very bright future. I am sure that the country will pull through again, but the effort has to be made now… before it is too late.
Taking forward our commitment to review and report all major industry events, this issue extensively covers the Garmentech fair and the industry’s enthusiasm on exploring new technologies. Our technical experts have evaluated the various technologies on display and some of the best are presented for our readers.
Adding more value to the Tech-Management pages, we are introducing a new series on ‘Industrial Engineering in Apparel Manufacturing’. Through this series, many experts and industry-informed professionals will share tips on successful implementation of IE. In the first article, we have talked about ‘Method Improvement Through Method Study’.
As always, I welcome your responses and feedback to continue giving targeted articles and discussing critical issues.
