Dhaka, Bangladesh (BBN) - Global buyers of Bangladesh's readymade garments (RMG) are cancelling scheduled visits and meetings due to rising security and political uncertainties—an alarming trend that industry leaders say could hurt work orders for the next two seasons.
At a discussion in the capital on Monday, leaders from the garment, textile, and allied sectors urged urgent steps to stabilise law and order and restore buyer confidence. They stressed that sustained political stability and a predictable business environment are essential as the industry navigates mounting challenges.
The view-exchange meeting, titled “Business Crisis and Negative Trend of Exports: Way Outs,” was held at Uttara Club and chaired by former BGMEA president Kazi Moniruzzaman.
Speakers pointed to several pressing issues, including Bangladesh’s upcoming LDC graduation, proposed amendments to labour law—particularly the provision allowing trade union registration by only 20 workers—widespread factory closures, and rising unemployment.
BGMEA president Mahmud Hasan Khan said the country is not yet prepared for LDC graduation set for November next year. He stressed the need for a stable and supportive policy regime, as well as improvements in law and order, to safeguard export competitiveness.
Former BGMEA president Faruque Hassan warned that buyers are increasingly uneasy about political instability, leading many to cancel factory visits. He noted that garment exports have posted negative growth for the past three months and may continue declining. “The national election must take place on time, and buyers’ confidence must be sustained,” he said.
Echoing this concern, Bangladesh Garment Buying House Association President Mohammad Pabel said buyers no longer feel secure travelling or visiting factories, raising the risk of orders shifting to competing countries.
Shovon Islam, managing director of Sparrow Group, said buyers have expressed security concerns since November 12. The mid-November to December period is critical for finalising summer-season orders and sourcing for the next spring season.
Four of his major buyers from the US, UK, and EU have already cancelled factory visits and shifted meetings to hotels instead, he added.
Speakers called for consistent policy support, greater efficiency at Chattogram port, and reductions in increased port charges. They also recommended ensuring business representation in the upcoming national election.
Among those addressing the event were Bangladesh Textile Mills Association President Showkat Aziz Russel and Bangladesh Garment Accessories and Packaging Manufacturers and Exporters Association President Mohammad Shahriar.
BBN/SSR/AD