Dhaka: Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) President Mahmud Hasan Khan recently met with a delegation from the Japan Textile Importers Association (JTIA) to discuss the potential for increasing garment exports to Japan. Japanese buyers expressed a keen interest in importing high-value and fashionable garments from Bangladesh.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the JTIA delegation included representatives from key Japanese companies such as MN Inter-Fashion Ltd., Kowa Company Ltd., Toyoshima and Co. Ltd., and AIT Corporation. The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral trade, with a particular emphasis on strengthening Bangladesh's garment exports to Japan.
BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan highlighted Bangladesh's strategic focus on market diversification, noting Japan as a crucial and promising market. He emphasized the industry's efforts to transition from basic cotton-based products to synthetic fabrics and technical textiles, aiming to position Bangladesh's product range in the higher-value segment.
The JTIA delegation praised the growth of Bangladesh's apparel industry, acknowledging its advancements in social and environmental compliance and worker safety. They noted that Bangladesh's growing capability in producing high-quality products makes it a trusted sourcing destination for Japanese buyers seeking high-value and fashionable items.
The discussion also addressed measures to streamline supply chains, with the JTIA delegation emphasizing the importance of reducing lead times. They suggested improving customs processes and operational efficiency at Chattogram Port to expedite product delivery. Additionally, BGMEA leaders sought assistance in simplifying the visa process for Bangladeshi businesspersons traveling to Japan.
BGMEA requested the delegation to share insights on global market trends and discussed issues such as the impact of U.S. tariffs and the implications of Bangladesh's upcoming graduation from LDC status. BGMEA President Khan formally requested continued duty-free market access from the Japanese government post-2026, suggesting mutually beneficial frameworks like an EPA or PTA.
Both organizations reiterated their commitment to mutual cooperation and efforts to increase Bangladesh's apparel exports to Japan.