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Global buyers of Bangladesh's readymade garments are cancelling scheduled visits and meetings in the country over security and political uncertainties, a development that industry leaders warn could affect work orders for the next two seasons.
At a discussion in Dhaka on Monday, leaders of the garment, textile and allied sectors called for urgent steps to stabilise the law-and-order situation and restore buyers' confidence.
They said sustained political stability and a predictable business environment are essential as the industry faces mounting pressures on multiple fronts.
The view-exchange meeting, titled "Business Crisis and Negative Trend of Exports: Way Outs", was held at Uttara Club and presided over by former BGMEA president Kazi Moniruzzaman.
Speakers highlighted ongoing challenges including LDC graduation, proposed amendments to labour law, particularly the provision allowing trade union registration by only 20 workers, widespread factory closures and rising unemployment.
BGMEA president Mahmud Hasan Khan said the country is not ready for LDC graduation by November next year.
He stressed the need for a stable and supportive policy regime, alongside improvements in law and order, to protect export competitiveness.
Former BGMEA president Faruque Hassan said buyers are increasingly concerned about political instability and are cancelling factory visits.
He warned that garment export growth has been negative for the past three months and may continue to decline in the coming months. "The national election must take place on time, and buyers' confidence must be sustained."
Echoing these concerns, Bangladesh Garment Buying House Association President Mohammad Pabel said buyers no longer feel secure travelling or visiting factories, increasing the risk of orders shifting to competing countries.
Shovon Islam, managing director of Sparrow Group, said buyers have been expressing security concerns since November 12. The mid-November to December period is crucial for finalising summer-season orders and sourcing for the following spring.
Four of his major buyers from the US, UK, and EU have already cancelled factory visits and opted for meetings in hotels instead.
Industry leaders also criticised the recent decision allowing trade unions to be formed by 20 workers, warning it could lead to instability driven by outside influence.
They noted that around 258 garment factories have closed over the past year, resulting in job losses for more than 100,000 workers.
Speakers called for consistent policy support, improved efficiency at Chattogram port, and reductions in increased port charges. They also suggested ensuring business representation in the next national election.
Bangladesh Textile Mills Association President Showkat Aziz Russel and Bangladesh Garment Accessories and Packaging Manufacturers and Exporters Association President Mohammad Shahriar were among those who spoke at the event.
Munni_fe@yahoo.com