Dhaka: Commerce, Industries, and Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir on Thursday called for stronger Bangladesh-China cooperation to promote sustainable, environment-friendly, and technology-driven growth in the country’s textile and apparel sector. Speaking as the chief guest at the opening ceremony of the three-day 2nd Bangladesh-China Green Textile Expo 2026 held at the International Convention City Bashundhara in the capital, he emphasized the importance of Chinese investment, technology, and innovation in enhancing the competitiveness and sustainability of Bangladesh’s textile and garment industries.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Minister Muktadir highlighted China’s experience in industrialization, technological advancement, and poverty reduction as valuable lessons for Bangladesh. He extended an invitation to Chinese investors to engage in meaningful investments in Bangladesh, aiming to create a mutually beneficial situation for both countries. Describing China as Bangladesh’s largest trading partner, the minister stressed the need for increased Chinese foreign direct investment to help reduce the bilateral trade gap.
Muktadir also called for Chinese investment in several sectors, including reviving closed state-owned mills and factories, modernizing the jute sector, expanding renewable energy, and promoting green industrialization. He noted that Bangladesh currently boasts the highest number of internationally certified green garment factories globally, highlighting the environmental awareness of local entrepreneurs. The efficient use of water, electricity, and energy, he said, is essential for making the textile sector more sustainable and globally competitive.
The minister expressed hope that joint initiatives such as the Bangladesh-China Green Textile Expo will pave new avenues for technology transfer, investment expansion, and sustainable industrial development. The event was graced by the presence of Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen as a special guest, alongside other distinguished guests including Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) Director Shah Rayeed Chowdhury, Bangladesh-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Mohd. Khorshed Alam, Bangladesh Garment Buying House Association President Abdul Hamid Pintu, Savor International Limited Managing Director Md Faizul Alam, Chinese Enterprises Association in Bangladesh President Han Kun, and Overseas Chinese Association in Bangladesh Vice President Lisa Lu.
Following the inauguration, Minister Muktadir visited various stalls at the expo. The three-day international exhibition, considered a specialized platform for the green textile industry, features leading textile and garment companies, investors, technologists, and business representatives from both Bangladesh and China. The expo, open to visitors daily from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm, will conclude on May 16.