Andre Carstens, the Netherlands Ambassador to Bangladesh, met with Anwar Hossain, Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) Administrator. The BGMEA Support Committee members also attended the meeting held at the BGMEA Complex in Uttara.
Discussions centred on enhancing collaboration to advance Bangladesh’s ready-made garment (RMG) sector, with a focus on environmental sustainability through circular fashion, recycling, and energy efficiency.
Anwar Hossain highlighted the industry’s growth in workplace safety, social and environmental compliance, and sustainable manufacturing practices. He also briefed the ambassador on BGMEA’s Sustainable Strategic Vision 2030, seeking to integrate social and environmental responsibility with economic growth. Key elements of the vision include fostering innovation, diversifying products and markets, and improving productivity.
The BGMEA Administrator thanked the Dutch government for its steadfast support, including assistance in establishing the Textile Technology Business Centre (TTBC) at the BGMEA Complex. He appealed for continued collaboration in areas such as knowledge sharing, technological innovation, and financial support to enhance resource efficiency, energy optimisation, and recycling capabilities.
Hossain also sought Dutch cooperation in developing the skills of Bangladeshi students in textiles, fashion, design, and business through partnerships with leading Dutch universities and institutes.
Ambassador Carstens commended the remarkable progress of Bangladesh’s RMG sector and reaffirmed the Netherlands’ commitment to the country’s overall development, including sustainable growth in the garment industry.
He mentioned the partnership between the Netherlands’ government and Bangladesh aiding in the development of the country for the past 50 years.
“The Netherlands government will continue to work for the overall development of Bangladesh including the garment industry,” he stated.
