BGMEA pushes for ethical buying, fair prices

The BGMEA emphasised ethical buying practices and fair prices of products to develop a more resilient supply chain system for considering workers' rights and welfare with high importance.
Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) President Faruque Hassan made the emphasis when Canadian High Commissioner Dr Lilly Nicholls paid a courtesy call at the apparel trade-body's complex in the city's Uttara area on Wednesday.
BGMEA Vice President Shahidullah Azim and Director Vidiya Amrit Khan, and Canadian High Commission Political Counsellor Bradley Coates and Trade Commissioner Md. Kamal Uddin were also present on the occasion, according to a statement.
During the meeting, their discussion focused on various issues of mutual interest for enhancing trade between Bangladesh and Canada.
They discussed how Bangladesh could increase its share of readymade garment (RMG) export, especially high-value garments, to Canadian market and attract investment in different potential sectors, like value-added and non-cotton textiles, it added.
The BGMEA president gave an overview of Bangladesh's RMG industry, including its current situation, opportunities and ongoing efforts to duly realise its potential.
He briefed the Canadian envoy about the vast progress made by the local RMG industry in terms of workplace safety, environmental sustainability, and workers' rights and welfare, adding that the industry is committed to continue the achievements.
Mr Hassan also informed her about the industry's vision and preparedness to meet future challenges as well as enhance the competitiveness and reputation of Bangladesh as a safe and sustainable apparel sourcing hub in the world.
He also highlighted the future priorities of Bangladesh's RMG industry, including increased emphasis on shifting to value-added garments, especially those made of non-cotton and technical textiles, technological upgradation, and skills and efficiency enhancement in order to continue the sector's growth momentum.
BGMEA has established a Centre of Innovation, Efficiency and Occupational Health and Safety (CIEOSH) to support the RMG industry with knowledge, skills and technological know-how for becoming more advanced and competitive in the global market.
Mr Hassan, through the high commissioner, sought cooperation of Canada in developing knowledge and skills of the students of BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology (BUFT) in textile, apparel, fashion, design and business through collaboration with the leading Canadian fashion institutes and universities.
He also expressed optimism about enhanced cooperation between Bangladesh and Canada to reap more mutual benefits, the statement added.

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