Originally posted in The Business Standard on 9 January 2024
Experts, entrepreneurs call for govt policies focused on sustainability
Experts and industry leaders have called on the government to adopt policies prioritising sustainability in alignment with global market demands. They have stressed that robust policy support and adequate utilities for businesses could eliminate the need for additional cash incentives.
These observations were made during a seminar on the theme, “Sustainable Approach by BGAPMEA”, at the International Convention City Bashundhara today. The seminar was a key event of the 14th Garments Accessories and Packaging Exposition 2025 and its concurrent event, Garment Technology Bangladesh 2025.
The four-day fair, jointly organised by the Bangladesh Garments Accessories and Packaging Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGAPMEA) and ASK Trade Show and Exhibition Private Limited, showcased products, raw materials and machinery from the garments, knitwear, packaging, footwear and textile industries.
Professor Mustafizur Rahman, distinguished fellow at the Centre for Policy Dialogue, highlighted the high-value addition in the accessories and packaging sector, which has shifted from being import-dependent to becoming a significant exporter.
“With the right government policies, Bangladesh can position itself as a key player in the global market,” he added.
The economist also advocated for investments in solar plants, describing them as beneficial for long-term sustainability.
He emphasised that trade facilitation is critical for expanding the sector’s global reach and urged a focus on productivity-based initiatives rather than promotional marketing.
In a keynote presentation, Chowdhury Rafez Alam, former BGAPMEA president, stressed the necessity of adequate government support for green transformation. He also called on global buyers to offer fair prices for environmentally friendly products.
“Development partners should support the backward linkage industry through their CSR programmes,” Alam added, while emphasising the need for cash incentives for direct exports to boost market share.
Shams Mahmud, president of the Bangladesh-Thai Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the critical issue of energy security, which he described as a major challenge for sustainability in the industry.
“We are not getting a consistent energy supply from the government. If energy security is ensured, the industry will not need further subsidies,” he said.
Mahmud pointed out that sudden electricity outages damage sophisticated machinery and lead to the wastage of in-process products, causing significant financial losses.
The businessman also stressed the importance of value addition at the design stage and called for government incentives for businesses using cleaner and more efficient energy solutions. He emphasised renewable energy and water efficiency as potential selling points for exporters.
Romaric Deville, managing director of Trimco Group, introduced a “digital passport” system that tracks a product’s entire supply chain data.
Joe Weinmann, managing director of GOH International Ltd, showcased black hangers made from recycled plastics, addressing environmental concerns.
Kim Chang Soon, chairman of the Korea Packaging Association, highlighted Korea’s success in waste reduction through government regulations and social campaigns promoting recyclable packaging materials.
BGAPMEA President Md Shahrier reiterated the sector’s commitment to supporting the apparel industry with environmentally friendly products, aligning with the industry’s growth trajectory.
At the event, Adzi Trims Ltd received the prestigious LEED Green Platinum certification with the highest scores in recognition of its leadership in green manufacturing practices.