The Bangladesh Denim Expo, an essential international platform for the denim industry, marked a significant milestone in its pursuit of a sustainable future under the theme "A Blue New World."
Organised by Bangladesh Apparel Exchange, the two-day event took place on November 4th and 5th, 2024, at the ICCB in Dhaka. With over 45 exhibitors from 7 countries, the expo highlighted cutting-edge denim products, fabrics, accessories, chemicals, and technologies.
The event also featured dynamic panel discussions that provided valuable insights into the future of the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) sector.
One of the key sessions, “Shaping the Future of the RMG Sector: GSP+ and LDC Transition,” addressed the critical issues Bangladesh faces as it prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status by 2029 and the necessity of securing Generalized System of Preferences Plus (GSP+) eligibility for continued market access.
At the panel discussion, M Riaz Hamidullah, Additional Foreign Secretary, emphasised the challenges Bangladesh faces in meeting expectations but stressed that liberty, inclusion, transparency, and labor rights are crucial to overcoming them.
D. Mostafa Abid Khan, Component Manager, SSGP, Ministry of Finance, discussed Bangladesh's reliance on the garment sector and highlighted the European Union's interest in extending GSP+ access, contingent on Bangladesh’s adherence to due diligence standards.
Edwin Koekkoek, First Counsellor, EU Delegation to Bangladesh, spoke about the progress in labor rights and environmental standards in Bangladesh, underscoring decarbonisation as a priority.
Mohammad Sohel Sadat, Chairman of Shin Shin Group, noted that sustainability in manufacturing is evolving. He emphasised improving labor conditions and educating both entrepreneurs and workers on social sustainability practices.
Ole Rosenborg Justesen, Sector Counsellor at the Embassy of Denmark, focused on labour rights, law enforcement, and investments in the supply chain, advocating for viewing due diligence as a competitive advantage rather than an obstacle.
CPD Distinguished Fellow Professor Mustafizur Rahman expressed confidence in Bangladesh's readiness for LDC graduation but suggested restructuring incentives to address upcoming challenges. He also encouraged brands and buyers to assist local entrepreneurs with technology transfer and labor compliance.
Shah Rayeed Chowdhury, director of Evince Group, emphasised the importance of buyer relationships and the role of automation in maintaining long-term competitiveness. He also stressed that compliance should be part of the industry’s mindset.
Regional Country Manager for international brand H&M, Ziaur Rahman, pointed out the need to raise awareness about due diligence laws among suppliers, as many are not fully aware of the compliance areas required for sustainable growth.
With over 5,543 visitors from 56 countries, the Bangladesh Denim Expo 2024 offered a global perspective on industry trends, sustainability, and the path forward for the denim sector in Bangladesh.