The leaders of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association urged the buyers to assist the manufacturers in introducing a unified code of conduct in the country鈥檚 apparel sector.
They made the appeal at a meeting with the buyers鈥� forum on Wednesday at BGMEA鈥檚 office in the capital, according to a press release.
The press release stated that representatives from more than 40 global fashion brands attended the meeting aimed to focus on collaborative strategies to ensure a more responsible and competitive future for Bangladesh鈥檚 garment industry.
Chaired by BGMEA president Mahmud Hasan Khan, the meeting saw the participation of BGMEA vice presidents, directors, and standing committee chairpersons alongside senior brand representatives.
At the meeting, BGMEA director Nafis-ud-Doula delivered a presentation regarding the Unified Code of Conduct for the industry defining how it could streamline audits, reduce factory-level compliance pressures, and foster a more ethical, sustainable, and transparent ecosystem across the supply chain.
They also discussed how Bangladesh and international buyers could work closely on sustainability, compliance, and resilience in the sector.
They discussed issues including the US tariff of 20 per cent on Bangladeshi apparel, product diversification, labour reforms, renewable energy integration, challenges of Bangladesh鈥檚 upcoming LDC graduation, and preparations for GSP+ eligibility.
Brand representatives, for their part, emphasised the need for better logistics, smoother customs procedures, labour environment improvements in line with international standards, and stronger commitments to environmental sustainability.
They also called for fostering growth through fashion design, recommending the establishment of a technical design section at BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology and encouraging the recruitment of young designers at the factory level.
Highlighting recent progress in labour reforms, BGMEA president Mahmud Hasan Khan stressed that the reforms would meet international standards and would ensure a sustainable and safe industrial environment.
He urged global brands to act as partners in these positive changes.
BGMEA leaders also called on brands to increase sourcing from Bangladesh, support innovation, and promote high-value product manufacturing.
They urged buyers to back better pricing models and efficiency-driven approaches to help the industry remain competitive while upholding ethical practices.
Brand representatives assured their continued support for Bangladesh鈥檚 apparel sector and expressed confidence in its ability to evolve as a hub of innovation and sustainability.
