Speakers at a meeting emphasized need for concerted efforts to safeguard Bangladesh’s garment industry, which acts as the key driving force behind the country’s economic growth.
The remarks came up while the BGMEA leaders held a courtesy meeting with the newly appointed Customs Commissioner, Md Zakir Hossain, at the Chittagong Customs House on Tuesday morning.
While addressing, the First Vice President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), Syed Nazrul Islam highlighted the role that customs authorities have played in supporting the country’s largest export sector.
‘Customs has been a proud partner in our success, consistently extending their hand of cooperation. This collaboration has allowed us to make a significant contribution to the economy by earning foreign exchange,’ he stated.
BGMEA directors M. Ehsanul Haque, Mohammad Musa, Rakib Al Nasser, Gazi Md. Shahidullah, and senior officials of the Chittagong Custom House were also present in the meeting others among .
They highlighted the challenges the garment industry is currently facing, including domestic and foreign pressures.
Nazrul Islam noted that the industry, which plays a crucial role in national employment and social security, has recently been marred by labour unrest.
Referring the ongoing labor unrest that has led to factory closures in key industrial zones like Ashulia and Gazipur, causing foreign buyers to withdraw their orders, he warned that if the situation continues, it could have devastating consequences for the country’s garment industry and overall economy.
‘The collapse of this sector would cripple the economy—an outcome none of us desire.’, he added
During the meeting, he also requested the cooperation of the customs authorities to prevent delays and reduce harassment related to minor import-export discrepancies, and to simplify processes to ensure timely execution of shipments.
Commissioner Md Zakir Hossain acknowledged the garment industry’s undeniable contribution to national economic growth and employment.
He assured the BGMEA leaders of the Customs House’s full cooperation in addressing existing issues and expediting the clearance of imports and exports.
‘We are committed to resolving any problems through mutual discussion and ensuring smooth operations to sustain the growth of this critical industry,’ he added.
