Special Correspondent: Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association- BGMEA election panel for 2025–2027 has announced a comprehensive 12-point election manifesto, pledging bold, experienced, and visionary leadership to steer Bangladesh’s apparel sector toward sustainable growth and global competitiveness.
Announcing the manifesto at a press conference at InterContinental Dhaka, panel leader and entrepreneur Md. Abul Kamal emphasized, “We are not just election candidates—we are your colleagues and fellow stakeholders in this industry. We are committed to transforming Bangladesh’s apparel sector into a future-ready, globally respected force.”
The 12-point manifesto includes the following strategic priorities:
SME Support Cell & Policy Advocacy
A dedicated SME Support Cell will be established to assist small and medium-sized enterprises through policy advocacy and institutional support in areas such as HS codes, audit issues, and regulatory compliance.
Utility Security & Alternate Incentive Package
Amid global energy challenges, the panel pledges to work towards ensuring uninterrupted electricity and gas supply, essential for continuous production cycles in the apparel sector.
Preparing for Industry 4.0 & Green Funding Desk
To meet Industry 4.0 standards, initiatives will upskill mid-level managers in AI, IoT, ERP, ESG, and digital tools. A “Green Funding Desk” will be launched to facilitate access to local and international finance, including GCF and IFC, for sustainable and renewable investments.
Market & Product Diversification
A strategic desk will be set up to help expand Bangladesh’s reach beyond traditional cotton products and markets—particularly into synthetic textiles and to regions like the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. MoUs, trade expos, and B2B initiatives will support this goal.
Alternate Incentive Policy for Post-LDC Competitiveness
As Bangladesh prepares for LDC graduation, the panel will advocate for new incentive structures to sustain export growth, employment, and investment, especially benefitting SMEs.
Trade Facilitation & NBR Reform
Proposals include temporary bond facilities for non-traditional exporters, reduced source tax, simplified customs processes, and the formation of a joint BGMEA–NBR–Customs taskforce to improve efficiency and ease of doing business.
EPIC will serve as a one-stop platform providing data, policy research, custom documentation support, trend analysis, and sustainability metrics—helping factories prepare for future demands and export compliance.
Unified Code of Conduct
A unified social compliance standard will be launched to harmonize various codes under one framework aligned with ILO and global buyer requirements—simplifying compliance especially for SMEs.
Social Compliance Enhancement Program
Plans include establishing a worker welfare fund and savings scheme to ensure long-term financial security and compliance in worker management.
Green Transformation with Business Value
A comprehensive support system for circularity, renewable energy, decarbonization, and ESG integration will be rolled out, backed by green finance and international collaboration.
“Made in Bangladesh – Premium Edition”
The panel will launch a high-profile branding campaign and international showcases to reposition Bangladesh as a producer of high-value, ethically produced, modern apparel—moving beyond the perception of low-cost manufacturing.
Trade Diplomacy & Responsible Exit Policy
The manifesto includes diplomatic efforts to retain GSP benefits, ensure fair exits for investors, and provide rehabilitation support for workers and businesses affected by structural shifts.
“This is not just an election manifesto; it’s a roadmap for sustainable transformation. Together, we can build a smarter, greener, and more resilient garment industry,” Abul Kamal concluded.
BGMEA’s current leadership and chief election coordinator, Faruque Hassan, expressed confidence in the panel’s vision and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the sector’s evolution in the face of global economic and regulatory changes.
