DHAKA, May 7, 2024 (BSS) - The two-day Bangladesh Denim Expo organized by Bangladesh Apparel Exchange ended today at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) in the capital.

Over 60 exhibitors from 11 countries showcased their latest denim products, fabrics, accessories, chemicals, and technologies at the expo.

The Bangladesh Denim Expo, an international platform to promote the Bangladeshi denim industry, thrived to drive the industry in the direction of re-imagination.

A total of four panel discussions were held, according to a press release.

Jahangir Kabir Nanak, Minister for Textiles and Jute, spoke at the closing ceremony as the chief guest.

Irma van Dueren, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Bangladesh, Siddiqur Rahman, former President of BGMEA, S.M. Mannan (Kochi), President of BGMEA, Abdullah Hil Rakib, Vice President, BGMEA & Managing Director, Team Group, Ziaur Rahman, Regional Head, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Ethiopia, H&M, MD. Mohiuddin Rubel, Additional Managing Director, Denim Expert Ltd. & Director, BGMEA spoke as special guests.

Speaking on the occasion, Nanak said, “As a safe and compliant sourcing hub, I request the buyers to choose Bangladesh and pay a fair price. The apparel industry is a crucial force for Bangladesh's progress economically. I am confident that with the influence of the RMG industry, Bangladesh will significantly progress into a developed country very soon.”

Irma van Dueren, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Bangladesh, said, “Bangladesh has made impressive progress in economic development indicators. The RMG sector has been crucial to this progress. In the coming years, our focus on the sector will be more and more on sustainability and circular practices everywhere.”

BGMEA president SM Mannan (Kochi) said, “We’re now incorporating automation and becoming ready to acquire greater market share globally. We’re making constant efforts in business sustainability, and we’re optimistic that we can add even greater value in the coming years.”

Ziaur Rahman, Regional Head, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Ethiopia, H&M said, “Circularity is one of the areas where we really need to work. It's an untapped opportunity. Transparency is your next best friend. If we want to lead this industry, we need to focus on efficiency improvement, waste management, innovation, and sustainability.”

Mostafiz Uddin Founder and CEO of Bangladesh Apparel Exchange (BAE) said “The RMG Industry of Bangladesh continues to be a driving force behind the country’s economic growth, and Bangladesh Denim Expo is on a mission to expand and evolve in the industry.”