Packaging sector has potential to overtake RMG with right policy support: Experts
Bangladesh Garments Accessories and Packaging Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGAPMEA) President Md Shahriar said corrupt individuals involved in money laundering had posed as businessmen and siphoned off large sums from banks, adding that genuine entrepreneurs never plunder a country’s wealth.
Industry experts and business leaders have urged the government to adopt business-friendly policies to develop a sustainable packaging sector, arguing that it has the potential to surpass the readymade garment (RMG) industry in export earnings.
The call was made at the closing ceremony of Garment Technology Bangladesh (GTB) 2026, held yesterday at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) in the capital.
Bangladesh Garments Accessories and Packaging Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGAPMEA) President Md Shahriar said corrupt individuals involved in money laundering had posed as businessmen and siphoned off large sums from banks, adding that genuine entrepreneurs never plunder a country's wealth.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA) President Showkat Aziz Russell stressed the need for self-reliance, noting that although Bangladesh has achieved self-sufficiency in packaging and accessories, certain policies are pushing the industry towards decline.
He warned that allowing 100% duty-free "free of cost" imports would result in all products being sourced from abroad, threatening the survival of local factories. He also called for a reduction in excessive port charges and levies to enhance the competitiveness of domestic businesses.
Speaking as the chief guest, former commerce and home minister Altaf Hossain Chowdhury expressed optimism after witnessing the sector's dynamism and capacity. He said packaging and accessories exports reached $7.45 billion in the last fiscal year and could surpass the garment sector if provided with the right support.
He also said the BNP would stand by entrepreneurs and work to resolve the sector's challenges if it forms the next government.
Bangladesh Employers' Federation (BEF) President Fazle Shamim Ehsan was present as a special guest at the event.
The four-day event, the country's largest garment technology exhibition, was jointly organised by ASK Trade & Exhibitions Pvt Ltd and the BGAPMEA.
As part of efforts to diversify and expand export trade, the BGAPMEA organised the 15th Garments Accessories and Packaging Expo (GAPEXPO), which featured 350 member and non-member companies across 1,500 stalls.
Companies from India, China, Pakistan, Taiwan, Australia, Germany and Dubai participated in the exhibition. Machinery, raw materials and locally manufactured garments accessories and packaging products were showcased.
Organisers said the expo attracted more than 1,00,000 visitors, creating effective linkages between buyers and sellers. On the final day, eight participating stalls were awarded crests in recognition of being selected as the "best stalls."
