The Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) elections are scheduled to be held on 10th May after nearly a decade, marking a significant event in the organization’s history. This election sees 38 candidates vying for 35 director posts, with the majority, 35 candidates, belonging to the Progressive Knit Alliance led by incumbent President Mohammad Hatem. Only three independent candidates are participating, making the victory of Hatem’s panel highly probable.
Voting will take place from 9 am to 5 pm at the BKMEA head office in Chashara, Narayanganj, and the Dhaka office. Preliminary results are expected to be announced shortly after voting concludes on 10th May, with the final official results scheduled for release on 14th May. Additionally, elections for officer posts will be held on 15th May, with results announced on 17th May.
Mohammad Hatem, who took over BKMEA leadership on 22nd July 2010, has overseen the organisation during a period marked by the absence of competitive elections, with previous leadership selections made from a single panel.
In conjunction with the election, the Progressive Knit Alliance has unveiled its 15-point manifesto, emphasising reforms to streamline customs, bonded warehouse procedures, and import-export processes. The manifesto was announced at a ‘Meet the Press’ event held in Dhaka on 7th May.
The alliance’s proposed measures include resolving issues related to customs and bonds, simplifying import and export procedures, establishing transparent rules for the use of composite units, and removing barriers in raw material supply from bonded to non-bonded companies. They also plan to address irregularities within the Bond Commissionerate and reduce pressures on non-bonded companies to obtain bond licenses.
Mohammad Hatem highlighted the need for reforms in the current customs structure, describing it as unfriendly to investment and business. He pledged to collaborate with the National Board of Revenue (NBR) to reform these systems and create an environment conducive to rational dialogue with government authorities.
Furthermore, the alliance aims to facilitate yarn imports through land ports by engaging with the relevant ministries, ensuring more dynamic production cycles. They also intend to work with Bangladesh Bank and other stakeholders to resolve banking sector issues and promote export-friendly policies, fostering a more conducive environment for the knitwear industry’s growth.
