COMMENT BY MOSTAFIZ UDDIN - The recent dissolution of the board of directors of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) by the interim government signals a significant moment for our vital garment sector. The government, acting under Section 17 of the Trade Organisation Act 2022, has appointed Md Anwar Hossain, vice-chairman of the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), to oversee the BGMEA's operations and organize fresh elections within 120 days, according to reports from local news outlets. 

This move aims to ensure a ‘free and fair’ election process to restore leadership stability within the organization.

Bangladesh's garment industry, a cornerstone of the nation's economy, contributes over 80 per cent of export earnings and employs millions of workers, primarily women. Any changes in the governance of the BGMEA, which represents the interests of the country’s garment manufacturers and exporters, could have far-reaching effects on the sector’s future. 

The garment industry faces multiple challenges, including rising production costs, international competition, and ongoing pressure to improve labour conditions. Effective leadership within the BGMEA is therefore critical for the industry to remain competitive in the global market. Our industry must sort out its differences.

The disbanding of the BGMEA board follows a series of internal leadership changes. In August, the former president of BGMEA, S.M. Mannan (Kochi), resigned due to health reasons, coinciding with the appointment of an interim government. Khandoker Rafiqul Islam, previously the senior vice president of the association, was subsequently elected president in a process that raised concerns about transparency. Dissatisfaction among BGMEA members regarding the handling of complaints and the election process led to further scrutiny of the board’s performance.

The garment sector’s stakeholders, including manufacturers, workers, and international buyers, will be closely watching the outcome of this restructuring. Ensuring a transparent and well-managed election could help restore confidence in the BGMEA’s ability to navigate the challenges the industry faces in the remainder of 2024 and beyond.