Technological modernisation, capacity building and supportive policy frameworks are critical to ensuring the long-term sustainability and global competitiveness of Bangladesh’s ready-made garment (RMG) sector, industry leaders and policymakers said on Wednesday.
They emphasised that, alongside upgrading workforce skills, the sector must now accelerate its transition towards smart manufacturing and environmentally sustainable technologies in order to remain competitive in the global market.
The remarks were made at the inauguration of Garment Technology Bangladesh (GTB) 2026 and GAPExpo 2026, held at the Expo Village of the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) in Dhaka. The four-day exhibitions are jointly organised by ASK Trade and Exhibitions Pvt Ltd and the Bangladesh Garments Accessories and Packaging Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGAPMEA).
BNP Standing Committee Member and former commerce minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury attended the opening ceremony as chief guest, while National Board of Revenue Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan FCMA was present as guest of honour. Other attendees included FBCCI Administrator Md Abdur Rahim Khan, BKMEA President Mohammad Hatem, BGMEA Acting President Salim Rahman, Bangladesh Association of Banks Chairman Abdul Hai Sarker and BGAPMEA President Md Shahriar.
Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said Bangladesh continued to maintain a strong position in the global RMG market but needed to further strengthen its capabilities to sustain competitiveness. He said the industry must move beyond an overreliance on labour and place greater focus on technological advancement, smart manufacturing and capacity building, which would help reduce operational costs, enhance efficiency and generate new employment opportunities.
Md Abdur Rahman Khan said Bangladesh had the potential to emerge as a fully industrialised nation if business-related obstacles were reduced and policy transparency ensured. He noted that becoming more technology-driven would minimise procedural barriers and create a more enabling environment for businesses.
BGAPMEA President Md Shahriar said the association, in collaboration with ASK Trade and Exhibitions, was working to support the growth of the apparel sector by promoting garment machinery, accessories, packaging products and raw materials, while also facilitating access to new international buyers.
ASK Trade and Exhibitions Pvt Ltd Managing Director Tipu Sultan Bhuiyan said technological transformation was no longer optional for the garment industry. He said GTB provided a platform for entrepreneurs to explore global innovations and directly source technologies suited to their factories, contributing to improved efficiency and long-term sustainability.
