Bangladesh’s textile and apparel industry has seen extraordinary growth, with record monthly exports of $4.6 billion in November and December 2022. In 2020, the sector’s exports stood at $29.8 billion, ranking it third globally. By 2022, this figure had surged to $49 billion, marking an impressive 64% growth in just two years.
Le Tien Truong, head of Vinatex, Vietnam’s largest textile manufacturer, attributes this “Bangladesh phenomenon” to consistent investment in advanced, efficient production technologies since 2018. As of August 2024, Bangladesh boasts 230 LEED-certified factories, with 40% achieving the prestigious Platinum level. Additionally, over 500 factories are working towards similar green certifications.
Truong credits Bangladesh’s success to its focus on sustainable practices, stable labour conditions, and productivity gains supported by an affordable workforce. He urges Vietnam to take note, pointing out that while the country has 13,000 businesses and over 50,000 manufacturers, only 10% of the 619 LEED-certified enterprises operate in the textile and apparel sector.
Vietnam faces significant challenges in greening its industry, particularly the financial investment required to modernise facilities and secure certifications. Key upgrades include larger factory spaces, solar power installations, enhanced ventilation, and green areas—all essential for boosting worker well-being and productivity.
The global textile and apparel sector generates over 90 million tonnes of solid waste annually, a figure projected to rise to 150 million tonnes by 2030. Currently, only 20% of this waste is recycled. Major fashion brands like Zara, Levi’s, Uniqlo, and H&M are responding with ambitious sustainability goals. For instance, Adidas aims to use 50% recycled materials in its products, while H&M targets 30% by 2025.
Although legislation mandating recycled materials in textiles is not yet widespread, green production is becoming unavoidable. Developed nations are expected to implement stricter regulations soon, prompting both producers and buyers to prepare for this shift.
