Bangladesh’s apparel industry must shift its global positioning from a cost-competitive sourcing destination to a hub for innovation and sustainability in order to remain competitive in the evolving global market, said BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan Babu.
Speaking at the inauguration of the 20th Bangladesh Denim Expo in Dhaka, Babu stated that the country’s ready-made garment sector has already established itself as a reliable sourcing destination, but sustaining future growth will depend on its ability to embrace innovation, strengthen sustainability practices and enhance value addition.
Highlighting the industry’s achievements, Babu noted that Bangladesh has become the largest exporter of denim products to both the European Union and the United States, overtaking China in these key markets. He attributed this success to the resilience of manufacturers, entrepreneurship, workforce capabilities and continued technological advancement across the sector.
However, he cautioned that global sourcing dynamics are changing rapidly, with buyers increasingly demanding transparency and accountability throughout supply chains.
The BGMEA President also pointed to Bangladesh’s growing leadership in sustainable manufacturing. According to him, the country now hosts 286 LEED-certified garment factories, the highest number globally while manufacturers continue to invest in effluent treatment plants, water recycling systems, renewable energy and textile waste recycling initiatives.
Babu acknowledged that the apparel sector continues to face multiple external challenges, including the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict and instability in the Middle East.
He further emphasized that Bangladesh’s upcoming graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status will require collective action from industry stakeholders, policymakers, development partners and international brands.
Expressing confidence in the industry’s future, Babu said Bangladesh has the potential to lead the next generation of global denim manufacturing through greater collaboration, technological advancement and circular production practices.
Bharat Tex Special Report 2026 
