Khagrachhari:Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) has launched a nationwide initiative to identify and promote potential non-apparel products in a bid to diversify Bangladesh's export portfolio and reduce reliance on the ready-made garment (RMG) sector. Currently, RMG accounts for approximately 80-82 percent of the nation's total annual exports, amounting to nearly $38 billion out of $48 billion.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the EPB is collaborating with district administrations to gather information on locally produced products that could become competitive exports. The goal is to develop several sectors, each capable of generating around $5 billion in annual exports, which could significantly enhance Bangladesh's export earnings and support the country's $100 billion export target.
EPB Vice Chairman Mohammad Hasan Arif stated that about one-third of Bangladesh's districts have already submitted initial reports identifying products with export potential. He noted that other districts are currently compiling data in collaboration with local entrepreneurs and stakeholders.
The EPB will screen these proposed products and conduct field visits to evaluate production capacity, quality, and export readiness. The initiative involves local administrations identifying products that could be developed into viable export industries, with the EPB assessing their ability to meet international standards and sustain stable supply chains.
The EPB is set to begin its field-level engagement with a visit to Khagrachhari, where it will assess potential products and offer training to local farmers. Initial assessments in Khagrachhari have shortlisted agricultural products such as mango, ginger, turmeric, and pineapple. The potential of local handicrafts and other products will also be examined.
Arif emphasized the importance of working directly with producers to familiarize them with export-market requirements, including quality and production standards. Once promising products are identified, the EPB plans to collaborate with government agencies to address infrastructure and policy challenges. Support could include facilities for cold storage, transportation, processing, and packaging, as well as access to finance and technical training.
The district-based approach aims to leverage Bangladesh's geographical diversity and resources to create new export opportunities, thereby building a more resilient export basket beyond garments.