In a recent meeting with the ambassador of Switzerland in Bangladesh, Faruque Hassan, President, Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) the latter sought 10 year extension to the Everything But Arms (EBA) scheme under its GSP program from Switzerland. Extension would make Bangladesh’s transition to a developing economic smoother.

The meeting discussed issues pertinent to the readymade garment industry in Bangladesh, and its progress in the social and environmental sustainability. The BGMEA chief applauded Swiss envoy for the transformation the industry has made over the past years.

The participants also highlighted the future potential of the industry and the need for industry up-grading particularly in skills and efficiency enhancement, technological expertise, and diversification of products (especially non-cotton). The BGMEA sought support from the embassy of Switzerland on the need for unified code of conduct for social audits and collaboration to promote the untold stories of the industry’s transformation.

The potential of foreign investment in non-cotton and technical textiles, light engineering sector and high end apparel items was encouraged. The Swiss ambassador expressed her satisfaction about the progress of the industry in the area of sustainable manufacturing and assured the support from the Swiss government.