The seminar, titled “Sustainable Approach by BGAPMEA,” was held at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) on Thursday. The event was organized in conjunction with the 14th Garments Accessories and Packaging Exposition (GAPEXPO) 2025 and the concurrent event, Garment Technology Bangladesh (GTB) 2025.
Jointly organized by the Bangladesh Garments Accessories and Packaging Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGAPMEA) and ASK Trade & Exhibitions Pvt. Ltd., the four-day event showcased products, raw materials, and machinery related to apparel, knitwear, packaging, footwear, and the textile industry.
Speaking as the chief guest, renowned economist and Honorary Fellow of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), Professor Dr. Mustafizur Rahman, highlighted the high value addition in the accessories and packaging sector. He noted that the once import-dependent industry now fulfills domestic demand and exports directly to global markets.
Dr. Rahman stated, “With proper policy support from the government, this sector can establish itself as a significant competitor in the global market.” He also recommended investments in solar energy to ensure long-term sustainability.
He further emphasized that to expand in the global market, the sector must prioritize enhancing productivity and capacity instead of relying solely on preferential trade benefits.
Former BGAPMEA President Chowdhury Rafeez Alam underscored the need for substantial government support for green transformation. He urged global buyers to pay fair prices for eco-friendly products and called for cash incentives and government policy measures to increase direct export participation.
Shams Mahmud, President of the Bangladesh-Thai Chamber of Commerce, stressed the importance of uninterrupted energy supply, describing energy security as a major challenge to the industry’s sustainability.
“We are not receiving consistent energy supplies from the government. If uninterrupted energy is ensured, industries may no longer require subsidies,” he opined.
Mahmud highlighted the financial losses caused by sudden power outages during factory operations, which damage advanced machinery and waste processed goods. He also emphasized value addition through in-house design and urged the government to incentivize energy-efficient technologies and skill development.
Renewable energy and water-efficient production systems were identified as potential selling points for exporters.
Romaric Deville, Managing Director of Trimco Group, introduced a “Digital Passport” system to track a product’s entire supply chain data, while Joe Weinman, Managing Director of GHO International Ltd., showcased the use of recycled plastics for black hangers as a response to environmental concerns.
Kim Chang Sun, Chairman of the Korea Packaging Association, shared Korea’s success in waste reduction through government regulations and social campaigns promoting recyclable packaging materials.
In his closing remarks, BGAPMEA President Md. Shahriar reiterated the commitment to supporting the growth trajectory of the apparel sector by providing eco-friendly accessories and packaging solutions.
