Bangladesh Ranked Second in Ethical Manufacturing

Export Update

In October 2021 Bangladesh RMG export was around US$3.57 bn, a 53.27% growth from the previous year (BGMEA). In this knitwear contributed US$2.05 bn and US$ 1.51 bn came from the woven sector

From July to October of FY 2021-22 – the first four months of the current FY – the garment sector exported $12.62 billion worth of items, increasing by 20.78% year-on-year (BGMEA). 

In the non-traditional category of export, One notable item is brassiere. Bangladesh exported US$ 2.10 bn worth of brassieres from Jan-Sep 2021, a 51% YoY growth.

Workspace Improvement

On 21 November 2021, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Swisscontact and Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) to upskill 120 female RMG workers. This will provide training on workplace security, health safety, leadership, productivity, and skill development for two months. This will work towards eliminating gender disparity in payment and increase awareness among female workers.

QIMA ranked Bangladesh second in ethical manufacturing, behind Taiwan (BGMEA) while the US Green Building Council bestowed Bangladesh with the Global Leadership Award (tbsnews.net).

Going Green

Bangladesh RMG industry is in the process of a green transformation. Bangladesh currently has 150 LEED green garment factories certified by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Additionally, 9 out of the world's top 10 green garment factories are in Bangladesh. Moreover, 500 more factories are in the process of getting the certification. BGMEA has signed a Fashion Industry Charter to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to 30% by 2030, providing a way towards a carbon-neutral fashion industry. 

Digital Transformation

As covid-19 showcased connectivity is vital for businesses to function. Bangladesh RMG industry has started the process of changing work processes to move towards a digital method. This will help in reducing lead time, improving efficiency and building a better circular industry. 

In this transformation online marketplace plays a vital role. In this scene, Merchant Bay is working towards building 1 stop hub for all apparel sourcing.