Bangladesh’s garment exporters are joining forces with HSBC to reach new international buyers through a Hong Kong roadshow, as the country’s largest export sector looks to diversify beyond its traditional markets amid shifting global sourcing patterns.
The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and HSBC Bangladesh signed a memorandum of understanding on Sunday to jointly promote Bangladesh’s ready-made garment industry overseas, according to a BGMEA statement.
The partnership will begin with a large-scale apparel roadshow in Hong Kong, one of Asia’s leading business hubs, bringing together Bangladeshi manufacturers with international brands, retailers and sourcing partners. The initiative is intended to attract buyers that currently source little or no apparel from Bangladesh while expanding the country’s presence in Asian markets.
The collaboration will also support BATEXPO, Bangladesh’s flagship textile exhibition, to strengthen engagement between local manufacturers and international buyers.
BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan and HSBC Bangladesh CEO Mahbub ur Rahman signed the agreement at the trade body’s headquarters in Uttara.
Mahmud Hasan Khan said HSBC’s extensive global banking network and close relationships with international apparel buyers would help Bangladesh engage sourcing companies that have yet to establish significant procurement links with the country.
Mahbub ur Rahman said the garment industry remained the backbone of Bangladesh’s economy and still had considerable growth potential. He called for research into changing global sourcing trends as international brands diversify their supplier base.
He also urged the industry to identify three to five strategic priorities to strengthen supply chains, improve competitiveness and expand Bangladesh’s share of the global apparel market, saying HSBC would support those priorities through its international network and policy engagement.
BGMEA Director Shah Rayeed Chowdhury said the partnership would create a stronger platform to promote Bangladesh’s apparel industry globally.
According to the statement, the initiative will focus on opening new export markets, strengthening Bangladesh’s position in global supply chains and showcasing the industry’s manufacturing capabilities, sustainability initiatives and ongoing modernisation to international buyers.
