The 17th edition of the Bangladesh Denim Expo concluded successfully at Dhaka’s International Convention City, Bashundhara. Hosted by the Bangladesh Apparel Exchange (BAE), the two-day event drew over 5,543 attendees from 56 countries and featured 45 exhibitors from seven nations showcasing cutting-edge denim products, fabrics, accessories, chemicals, and production technologies. This year’s theme, ‘A Blue New World,’ underscored the importance of eco-friendly practices and responsible sourcing in Bangladesh’s journey toward sustainable innovation in fashion.

Driving sustainability in denim manufacturing

As Bangladesh moves toward sustainable fashion, the Expo provided a platform for industry leaders to discuss and embrace environmentally friendly practices. ‘A Blue New World’ highlighted the critical role of ethical responsibility and quality as Bangladesh strives to enhance its image in the global denim market. Exhibitors and participants were inspired to adopt practices that ensure the sustainability of both production and supply chains.

The event featured two influential panel discussions addressing Bangladesh’s path forward in the global ready-made garment (RMG) sector. The first panel focused on strategic actions necessary for Bangladesh’s RMG sector to transition from a low-cost production hub to a leader in sustainable, high-value apparel by 2030. Industry experts discussed the need for innovation, infrastructure upgrades, and a stronger emphasis on labor standards, all crucial for securing Bangladesh’s position in the global market.

The second panel discussion centered on Bangladesh’s anticipated graduation from its least developed country (LDC) status by 2029 and the critical need to maintain EU market access by adhering to GSP+ requirements. Panelists explored essential adaptations, with a focus on enhancing labor rights, improving environmental standards, and promoting transparency within the industry to ensure compliance and market competitiveness.

Expert insights on compliance, innovation, and labor rights

Throughout the event, experts from various fields shared insights on Bangladesh’s challenges and opportunities in the evolving apparel sector. M Riaz Hamidullah, Additional Foreign Secretary, highlighted the importance of labor rights, inclusion, and transparency in meeting global expectations. Mostafa Abid Khan from the Support for Sustainable Graduation Project emphasized the country’s reliance on the garment sector and noted the EU’s support if compliance standards are maintained. Edwin Koekkoek, representing the EU Delegation to Bangladesh, discussed the role of due diligence in promoting sustainability, with a focus on labor and environmental standards as well as decarbonization efforts.

Mohammad Sohel Sadat, Chairman of Shin Shin Group, stressed the need for continuous improvements in labor conditions and the importance of collaboration among customers, brands, and stakeholders to showcase social sustainability efforts in Bangladesh. Ole Rosenborg Justesen, Sector Counsellor from the Danish Embassy, highlighted the importance of investments in labor law, inspections, and supply chain infrastructure to improve working conditions in factories. Mustafizur Rahman, a Distinguished Fellow at CPD, urged brands and buyers to support local entrepreneurs through technology transfer and compliance enhancements, pointing out that compliance has become the new standard in the industry.

Shah Rayeed Chowdhury, Director at Evince Group, emphasized the importance of maintaining strong relationships with buyers and investing in team-building efforts to remain competitive. He highlighted the value of a ‘man behind the machine’ approach, which combines automation with human expertise to ensure sustainable business growth. Ziaur Rahman, Regional Manager at H&M, noted that while Bangladesh’s RMG sector has grown significantly over four decades, there is still work to be done to raise awareness about labor laws and due diligence standards among suppliers. He emphasized the need to build on foundational compliance practices.

A global meeting point for the denim industry

The Expo’s impressive turnout solidified its reputation as a key event for the global denim community, fostering collaboration and innovation. As Bangladesh aims to lead in sustainable, high-value apparel, the 17th Bangladesh Denim Expo has laid the groundwork for a brighter, greener future in fashion.