A Dutch trade mission will visit Bangladesh next week to foster business-to-business collaboration with the country's garment and textile sector.
The mission members included representatives from Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, apparel brands, impact investors and companies working on traceable solutions to promote circular fashion.
Organised by the Embassy of the Netherlands in Bangladesh and the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) with support from Export Partner, Clean & Unique, BGMEA, and the Bangladesh Apparel Exchange (BAE), the mission is set to arrive on February 10, according to a statement.
Andre Carstens, Ambassador of the Netherlands, said, "Bangladesh has established itself as a formidable force in the global textile market and is recognised as the second-largest exporter."
The textile sector is crucial to the economic growth and thrived through many global and local challenges. The RMG and textile industry is taking proactive steps towards sustainability by investing in circularity and establishing green factories.
The Netherlands recognises the latent power of this sector and launched the Circular Textile Programme, Ms Andre said, adding that the trade mission between Bangladeshi manufacturers and the Netherland-based companies is a significant step towards bridging technology gaps and fostering strong business relations.
"Through business-to-business collaboration, capacity building, piloting innovative practices, and cross-border dialogue, the programme aims to enable circular practices across the textile value chain, improve textile waste management systems to ensure better labour circumstances and maximise recycling, and ensure inclusivity," she said.
Dutch innovations in recycling, traceability technologies, and circular design can be adapted to the Bangladeshi context, she said. "In turn, Bangladesh's expertise in large-scale manufacturing and local recycling methods provides valuable insights."
During the visit, the delegation is expected to participate in the 6th Sustainable Apparel Forum (SAF) 2025, organised by the BAE.
The delegation is scheduled to meet BGMEA leaders and visit garment and textile factories in Savar and Gazipur to promote trade and investment that benefit people, create jobs and stimulate business, transfer knowledge and skills.
Munni_fe@yahoo.com
