BGMEA election: Forum unveils 14-point manifesto to build sustainable garment sector

Forum, a panel contesting the BGMEA upcoming election for 2025-27, has made a 14-point election manifesto to build a sustainable garment sector.

Mahmud Hasan Khan, panel leader of the Forum, said, "The garment industry is not just a business, it is a reflection of our labour, sacrifice and dreams."

“However, in today's reality, the role of BGMEA should not be limited to providing certificates or documents,” he said, adding they need leadership that will go deep into the problems and find ways out.

“BGMEA must take responsibility to build Bangladesh as a brand," he said while announcing his panel's election manifesto and introducing panel members held at the BGMEA complex at Uttara in the city.

According to the manifesto, if elected, they would support SMEs and non-bonded industries, formulate a detailed exit policy for ailing industries and engage with the government to combat the tariff war.

A special fund for the owners has also been promised to be created for factories in distress.

Other proposals included the creation of a separate ministry for the industry, diversification of both markets and products to address global challenges and help flourish the country’s readymade garment sector.

Measures to address post-graduation challenges and issues related to banking, customs are promised.

Forum President Abdus Salam, Secretary General Dr Rashid Ahmed Hossaini, Chief Election Coordinator Faisal Samad and forum candidates were present at the time.

Election Board Chairman Mohammad Iqbal presided over the meeting, which was also attended by BGMEA former presidents Anisur Rahman Sinha and Anwar ul Alam Chowdhury Parvez.

The BGMEA election is scheduled to take place on May 31.

Three panels of the country's apparel exporters-- Forum, Sammilita Parishad and Oikkyo Parishad are contesting the upcoming BGMEA election.

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