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EuRIC’s Textile branch launches new ‘Recyclers’ manifesto, aims for Textile Circularity by 2030

EuRIC’s Textiles Branch has launched a comprehensive manifesto, outlining critical policy recommendations to drive textile circularity across the European Union by 2030. The “EU Recyclers’ Manifesto” addresses the growing crisis of textile waste, highlighting the urgent need for systemic change.

With EU citizens generating approximately 16 kilograms of textile waste annually, and only a fraction being properly recycled, EuRIC warns of the severe environmental consequences of continued landfilling and incineration. The manifesto underscores the unprecedented challenges facing Europe’s textile recycling sector, exacerbated by rising costs, diminishing demand, and the rapid proliferation of ultra-fast fashion.

EuRIC Textiles is calling for a multi-pronged approach, including extending the lifespan of textile products, significantly increasing the use of recycled textile fibres, and drastically improving textile recycling rates, which currently stand at less than 1% for new clothing.

To achieve these goals, the manifesto advocates for the implementation of key policy measures by the EU, such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes, ecodesign requirements, and the use of Digital Product Passports (DPP) to enhance consumer education. Additionally, EuRIC is pushing for EU End-of-Waste criteria, fair-trade practices, balanced chemicals legislation, and stricter compliance monitoring to ensure transparency and combat greenwashing.

RMG exports to EU jump by 61% to €1.91 billion in January

Bangladesh’s apparel exports to the European Union kicked off 2025 with a remarkable 60.9% jump to reach €1.91 billion in January, compared to €1.19 billion in the same month of 2024.

Of these, knitwear exports in the first month of 2025 surged by 64.2%, while woven apparel exports increased by 56.3%, according to data from Eurostat, the statistical office of the EU, released on Tuesday (18 March).

In terms of quantity, Bangladesh’s readymade garment exports to the 27-nation economic bloc also witnessed a substantial surge in January 2025, increasing by 58.1% to 126.86 million kilograms from 80.25 million kilograms in the same month of the previous year.

This strong growth solidifies Bangladesh’s position as a key supplier to the European market, driven by competitive pricing, preferential trade facilities under Everything But Arms (EBA), and improvements in production capacity.

The president of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association, Mohammad Hatem, said this growth was ‘encouraging’ for exporters, as it indicated that the market was bouncing back to a positive trend.

“The overall growth had been driven by increased capacity, efficiency, and productivity,” he said.

Hatem also stated that a good number of work orders were shifting from China to other countries, with Bangladesh being one of the key beneficiaries.

He, however, expressed concerns over the slow progress in improving the law and order situation, which he fears can affect buyers’ and investors’ confidence.

The business leader called on the government to ensure adequate supply of utilities including gas and electricity and make it prices at affordable levels to increase exporters competitiveness. 

The BKMEA president further noted that not only the EU market but also the US market was improving after a prolonged period of slowdown in business.

Hatem explained that thanks to economic improvements in major markets, consumers were purchasing more apparel items.

Eurostat data showed that the EU’s overall apparel imports from different countries witnessed a significant surge in January 2025, with total imports reaching €8.29 billion, up 31.9% from €6.28 billion in January 2024.

China, the largest apparel supplier to the EU, maintained strong growth, with total exports increasing by 40.9% to €2.38 billion in January 2025.

The country’s knitwear exports to the EU grew by 45.3% to €1.23 billion, while woven exports rose by 36.4% to €1.14 billion.

Bangladesh remained the second-largest apparel exporter to the EU after China.

The EU’s apparel imports from Turkey in January 2025 increased by 5.4% to €874.09 million from €829.21 million in the same month of 2024.

Cambodia’s apparel exports to the EU in January 2025 surged by 72.5%—the highest among major exporting countries—reaching €420.9 million. Knitwear exports rose by 71.6% to €256.2 million, while woven apparel jumped by 73.9% to €164.7 million.

The EU’s apparel imports from India increased by 44.5% year-on-year, reaching €397.7 million in January 2025.

Vietnam’s apparel exports to the EU in January 2025 climbed by 34.3% to €398.6 million, with knitwear rising by 26% and woven apparel increasing by 40.7%.

Exporters stated that Vietnam’s steady expansion underscores its appeal as a reliable sourcing hub, benefiting from a well-developed supply chain and free trade agreements such as the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement, which offers preferential tariffs on many textile products.

Pakistan’s apparel exports to the EU grew by 31.9%, reaching €347.7 million in January 2025.

Pakistan’s woven apparel exports to the EU increased by 42.8% to €175.6 million, while knitwear grew by 22.5% to €172.1 million.

Bangladesh’s apparel exports to EU rise by 61pc in Jan

Bangladesh’s apparel exports to the European Union have recorded significant growth in the beginning of 2025, rising by 60.9 per cent to 1.91 billion euros in January, compared with 1.19 billion euros in the same month of 2024.

In terms of quantity, the country’s readymade garment exports to the EU also witnessed a substantial surge in the first month of 2025 increasing by 58.10 per cent to 126.86 million kilogram from 80.25 million kilogram in the same month of previous year, according to data from the Eurostat, the statistical office of the EU, released on Tuesday.

The country’s knitwear exports to the 27-nation economic bloc in the first month of 2025 surged by 64.2 per cent to 1.15 billion euros, while woven apparel exports increased by 56.3 per cent to 765.97 million euros, data showed.

Exporters said that this substantial growth solidified Bangladesh’s position as a key supplier to the European market, driven by competitive pricing, preferential trade facilities under Everything But Arms and improvements in production capacity.

They also said that overall apparel imports by the EU rose significantly in January 2025, as consumer demand for clothing increased with declining inflation and falling interest rates.

Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association former president Fazlul Hoque described the growth as ‘encouraging,’ saying that the industry was rebounding.

He said that, similar to the US market, the EU market was also improving after a prolonged period of weakness.

Fazlul Hoque explained that with the economy improving, consumers were purchasing more apparel, leading to increased demand in the EU market.

Data showed that the overall apparel imports by the EU from different countries in January 2025 witnessed a significant surge in January 2025, with total imports reaching 8.29 billion euros, up 31.9 per cent from 6.28 billion euros in January 2024.

China, the largest apparel supplier to the EU, maintained strong growth, with total exports increasing by 40.9 per cent to 2.38 billion euros in January 2025.

The country’s knitwear exports to the EU grew by 45.3 per cent to 1.23 billion euros, while woven exports rose by 36.4 per cent to 1.14 billion euros.

Bangladesh remained the second-largest apparel exporter to the EU after China.

The EU’s apparel imports from Turkey in January 2025 increased by 5.4 per cent to 874.09 million euros from 829.21 million euros in the same month of 2024.

Cambodia’s apparel exports to the EU in January 2025 surged by 72.5 per cent—the highest among major exporting countries—reaching 420.9 million euros. Knitwear exports rose by 71.6 per cent to 256.2 million euros, while woven apparel jumped by 73.9 per cent to 164.7 million euros.

The EU’s apparel imports from India increased by 44.5 per cent year-on-year, reaching 397.7 million euros in January 2025.

Vietnam’s apparel exports to the EU in January 2025 climbed by 34.3 per cent to 398.6 million euros, with knitwear rising by 26 per cent and woven apparel increasing by 40.7 per cent.

Exporters said that Vietnam’s steady expansion underscores its appeal as a reliable sourcing hub, benefiting from a well-developed supply chain and free trade agreements such as the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement, which offers preferential tariffs on many textile products.

Pakistan’s apparel exports to the EU grew by 31.9 per cent, reaching 347.7 million euros in January 2025.

In January 2025, the Pakistan’s woven apparel exports to the EU increased by 42.8 per cent to 175.6 million euros, while knitwear grew by 22.5 per cent to 172.1 million euros.

American & Efird expands global presence with new manufacturing facility in Chittagong

American & Efird (A&E), a leading global thread supplier, has officially inaugurated its 24th manufacturing facility in Chattogram. This expansion marks a significant milestone in A&E’s strategy to enhance its global manufacturing network and respond to the growing demand for innovative thread solutions in Bangladesh and throughout South Asia.

Strategically located near Southern Bangladesh’s bustling seaport and financial hub, the new state-of-the-art facility complements A&E’s existing operation in Gazipur. This expansion is expected to boost production capacity, improve service levels, and reduce lead times, allowing A&E to deliver high-quality thread products more efficiently to customers around the world.

The facility’s opening was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony that attracted industry leaders, customers, suppliers, partners, and government officials. Guests were given an exclusive tour of the new facility, where they learned about its advanced technologies and capabilities.

The Chittagong facility is equipped with the latest manufacturing technologies and scalable production processes designed to meet increasing market demands. Key features include advanced production lines for spun and filament thread products, dedicated research and development capabilities for product innovation, and sustainability-focused operations aimed at reducing environmental impact. The facility is also expected to create over 350 local jobs, contributing to the region’s economic development.

In addition to manufacturing, the Chittagong facility will serve as a regional hub for innovation, where A&E will focus on developing advanced thread solutions, optimising production processes, and implementing sustainability initiatives.

With this expansion, A&E further solidifies its leadership role in the global textile industry, building on a legacy of excellence that dates back to 1891. The Chittagong facility is poised to play a vital role in the company’s future growth and in shaping the next generation of thread solutions for the textile sector.

Garment workers want wage, allowance by Ramadan 20

Different garment workers right bodies on Tuesday at separate rallies in Dhaka demanded paying wage and festival allowance of the garment workers before Ramadan 20.

Garments Sramik Odhikar Andolan, a combine of garment workers right bodies, Bangladesh Garment Sramik Samhati and Garments Sramik Oikya Forum held separate rallies in front of the National Press Club to press their demands.

Garments Sramik Odhikar Andolan rally was chaired by garment labour leader Prakash Datta, where garment labour leader Mushrefa Mishu said that garment workers were low paid so they would not be able to enjoy the Eid festival with their family members if they did not get wage and festival allowance before Ramadan 20.

She called on the interim government and garment factory owners to pay wage and festival allowance of the workers by Ramadan 20.

Garment labour leaders Shamim Imam, Raju Ahmed, Saiful Islam and others spoke at the rally.

The rally was followed by a protest procession that paraded different city roads.

Garment Sramik Samhati also held a separate rally in front of the National Press Club where its president Taslima Akhter chaired.

Taslima Akhter also called on the interim government and garment factory owners to take steps to pay wage and festival allowance of the workers before Ramadan 20.

She also alleged that in some factories the managements are sacking workers.

Taslima Akhter called on the factory owners to refrain from job cut before Eid-ul Fitar.

General secretary of the organisation Mizanur Rahman Chowdhury, central leaders Anjan Das, Asadul Islam, Sabina Yesmin, Prabir Saha and others spoke at the rally.

The rally was followed by a protest procession.

Garments Sramik Oikya Forum leaders also from a rally demanded paying wage and festival allowance of the garment workers properly before Ramadan 20.

Chaired by president of the organisation Mushrefa Mishu, central leaders Shahidul Islam Sabuj, Amena Akter, Imdadul Haque and others spoke at the rally.

The rally was followed by a protest procession that paraded different city roads.

RMG workers block Dhaka-Mymensingh Highway for an hour in protest of indefinite closure of factory

Some readymade garments (RMG) workers have blocked the Dhaka-Mymensingh Highway in protest over the closure of their factory for an indefinite period following previous unrest.

Earlier this morning (22 March), the authorities of Giant Knit Fashion Limited in Gazipur’s Bason Police Station closed down their factory following workers’ unrest for several days.

During the ongoing blockade, vehicular movement on the highway remained suspended for an hour, causing immense suffering to the commuters.

The traffic situation later became normal as members of police and army went to the spot and brought the situation under control.

“Workers of a factory blocked the highway. Some other factories in the area declared a holiday for today following the incident. Many of them restarted their production activities by bringing back their workers later. The situation is normal at present,” said AKM Jahirul Islam, superintendent of Gazipur Industrial Police-2.    

According to sources, workers of Giant Fashion were observing work abstention on 20 March over not getting Eid bonuses and demanding an increase in Eid holidays.

They even beat up four officers of the management, following which the authorities closed down the factory for an indefinite period following Section 13(1) of the Bangladesh Labour Act 2006 to ensure overall security and protect the assets and the staff of the factory, sources said.

Arriving at the factory in the morning, the workers found the closure notice. Getting angry, they started a protest by blocking the Dhaka-Mymensingh Highway.

Police said the agitated workers allegedly beat up four staff of the management, which led the joint forces to detain four workers. They were later freed.

Finally, the factory authority closed down the factory today, police added.

RMG exports to major destinations increase

The exports of the country’s readymade garment items witnessed substantial growth to its major destinations in the past eight months (July-February) of the current financial year 2024-25.

According to the country-wise detailed export data of the Export Promotion Bureau and compiled by the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association, Bangladesh exported RMG items worth $26.8 billion in July-February of FY25, a moderate increase of 10.64 per cent, from $24.22 billion in the same period of FY24.

Apparel exporters said that, thanks to the growing demands of brands and retailers, export earnings maintained a growth momentum despite the political transition since August 5.

In the July-February period of FY25, Bangladesh bagged $13.42 billion from the European Union countries, the largest market of Bangladeshi manufacturers. This is 11.53 percent higher than the $12.03 billion earned in the same period of FY25. The export earnings from the EU accounted for 50.10 per cent of the total earnings.

Export earnings from the US witnessed a robust growth of 16.38 percent to $5.07 billion, up from $4.35 billion in the July-February period of FY24. The US, the largest single destination for exporters, represented an 18.91 per cent share of the total earnings.

Fetching a positive growth of 3.74 per cent, Bangladeshi apparel exporters earned $2.92 billion in July-February of FY25 from the UK, higher from $2.82 billion in the same period of FY24, the EPB data stated.

From Canada, the RMG sector earned $845.55 million in July-February of FY25, 14.12 per cent more than the $740.91 million earned in the same period of FY24.

Germany remained the largest export destination within the EU countries, from where Bangladeshi RMG manufacturers bagged $3.38 billion in July-February of FY25.

Followed by Germany, the export earnings from Spain stood at $2.35 billion, France at $1.43 billion, Italy at $1.05 billion, Poland at $1.13 billion, and the Netherlands at $1.43 billion, the EPB data stated. 

Regarding apparel exports, countries like the US, Canada, the UK, and the EU are considered traditional markets, while other countries are deemed non-traditional. Japan, Australia, Russia, India, China, South Korea, UAE, Malaysia, Brazil, and Mexico are major non-traditional export destinations.

Export earnings from the nontraditional market also demonstrated positive growth, with an overall surge of 6.23 percent reaching $4.52 billion, which was $4.26 billion in the FY24 period.

The nontraditional market represented 16.90 per cent of Bangladesh’s total RMG exports. Among these markets, Japan led with imports worth $839 million from Bangladesh, followed by Australia at $582 million and India at $478 million.

Moreover, RMG exports to Turkey and Mexico also witnessed significant earnings, amounting to $305 million and $229 million, respectively. 

EPB data showed that export earnings from almost all major destinations experienced a double-digit growth rate during the July-February period.

Talking to New Age, Mohiuddin Rubel, former director of the BGMEA, said that Bangladesh’s ongoing growth in exports significantly depends on the EU and USA, which continue to be its main markets.

The moderate growth in the non-traditional market underscores the importance of further research and focus in this category, as it possesses substantial growth potential, which will also help to balance reliance on traditional markets, he added.

He also said there should be a dedicated emphasis on investing in backward linkages to bolster and enhance the RMG sector’s competitiveness and growth potential, as remaining competitive throughout is always essential.

RMG exports to US grow 46pc in Jan

The readymade garment exports to the United States, the single largest export destination of Bangladesh, witnessed a robust growth of 45.93 per cent in January of 2025 to $799.65 million, according to the latest data published by the Office of Textiles and Apparel (Otexa).

According to the Otexa data, Bangladeshi exporters shipped RMG items worth $547.95 million in the same month of 2024.

In January 2025, the growth rate of Bangladesh outplayed all other major competitors, including Indonesia (41.70 per cent), India (33.64 per cent), and Vietnam (19.90 per cent).

In the mentioned month, the North American country imported RMG items worth $7.20 billion from its global suppliers, which was 19.46 per cent higher from $6.03 billion of January of 2024.

In terms of volume, Bangladesh RMG exports to the US in January of 2025 saw a positive growth of 49.21 per cent to 261.3 million square metres from 175.12 million square metres of January of 2024, Otexa data stated.

In January 2025, Bangladesh market share was 9.44 per cent in the North American country.

According to the Otexa data, China and Vietnam remained the first and second highest exporters to the US market in January 2025, respectively.

Among the other major suppliers, US apparel imports from China in January experienced a positive growth of 13.72 per cent to $1.6 billion from $1.41 billion in the mentioned period of 2025. China has a market share of 20.77 per cent.

Vietnam exported apparel items worth $1.45 billion in the first month of 2025, fetching a positive growth of 19.9 per cent from $1.2 billion in the same period of 2024, claiming a market share of 18.92 per cent, Otexa data stated.

Followed by Bangladesh, India secured the fourth position by exporting apparel items worth $473.27 million in January of 2025, registering a positive growth of 33.64 per cent from $354.14 million in January of 2024, with a market share of 5.98 per cent in the US.

According to the Otexa data, the US RMG imports from Indonesia surged by 41.7 per cent to $419.95 million, while the imports from Cambodia increased by 29.95 per cent to $324.98 million in the same period, which made them the fifth and sixth with a market share of 5.44 per cent and 4.82 per cent, respectively.

However, the import from Mexico witnessed a thin growth of 1.26 per cent and from Honduras witnessed a negative growth of 26.10 per cent demonstrated the diversified sourcing of the US.

Mohiuddin Rubel, former director of the BGMEA, said that the diversification of sourcing by US retailers and Bangladesh’s ongoing efforts to enhance factory compliance and sustainability, has strengthened its position in the global apparel markets.

He also said that as Bangladesh continues to invest in sustainability and innovation, the country’s apparel sector is poised for continued growth, also emphasized the need to diversify products and other policy supports.

According to the Otexa data, Bangladesh’s apparel exports to the US in 2024 saw a marginal 0.75 per cent growth to reach $7.34 billion compared with those of $7.29 billion in 2023 amid fluctuations in shipments throughout the year.

Apparel export to US sees around 46% growth in January

Bangladesh has emerged as the fastest-growing apparel exporter to the United States in January 2025, achieving a remarkable 45.93% year-on-year growth, according to the latest data published by the Office of Textiles and Apparel (Otexa) and compiled by the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA).

As per the data, US imports of Bangladeshi apparel reached $799.65 million in January 2025, a significant jump from $547.95 million in the same month of 2024. This growth rate outpaced all other major suppliers, including Indonesia (41.70%), India (33.64%), and Vietnam (19.90%).

The overall US apparel import market grew by 19.46% year-on-year to $7.2 billion during the same period. 

The rise in exports from countries like Indonesia, India, and Cambodia suggests a diversification of sourcing by US buyers, possibly influenced by competitive costs and geopolitical considerations.

Meanwhile, China’s slower growth and Honduras’s sharp decline indicate shifting dynamics in global sourcing patterns. Factors such as trade policies, production costs, and sustainability requirements continue to shape these trends.

Despite global economic challenges, Bangladesh’s competitive pricing, enhanced production capabilities, and commitment to sustainable and ethical manufacturing practices have likely contributed to this robust growth in January.

Industry insiders opined that the diversification of sourcing by US retailers, coupled with Bangladesh’s ongoing efforts to enhance factory compliance and sustainability, has strengthened its position in the global apparel supply chain.

Talking to The Business Standard, Mohiuddin Rubel, a former director of BGMEA, said, “As Bangladesh continues to invest in sustainability and innovation, the country’s apparel sector is poised for continued growth.”

He also emphasised the need to diversify product offerings to sustain this momentum.

Among the other major exporting countries, China has maintained its position relative to the US, with apparel exports rising by 13.72% to $1.6 billion from $1.41 billion in January 2024. While the growth is steady, it’s relatively lower compared to some emerging competitors.

Vietnam also recorded a 19.90% increase in exports, reaching $1.44 billion, showcasing its sustained competitiveness in the US market. 

Indonesia has achieved an impressive growth of 41.70%, with exports rising from $296.36 million to $419.95 million, positioning it among the fastest-growing exporters.

India exported $473.27 million worth of apparel, marking a 33.64% year-on-year growth, while Cambodia posted a strong growth of 29.95%, with exports rising to $324.99 million.

Mexico saw marginal growth of 1.26%, indicating relatively stagnant performance compared to others.

However, Honduras has faced a sharp decline, with exports falling by 26.10% to $112.02 million, highlighting competitive pressures or supply challenges.

Faruque Hassan, a former BGMEA president, said American buyers are placing more orders in Bangladesh, as reflected in recent import data.

He explained that US imports recorded in January indicate that goods were shipped prior to that month, likely in late November or December last year.

He also expressed optimism that the US market will improve in the coming months, with an increase in global sourcing.

He also pointed out that some orders are shifting from China to Bangladesh due to an additional 10% duty imposed by the Trump administration on Chinese exports to the US from last month.

Furthermore, additional tariff measures were to be imposed on US imports from China and Mexico starting from 4 March. 

Under the new regulations, Chinese exports to the US will face an additional 10% duty, while Mexican exports will be subjected to a 25% duty.

Previously, Mexican exports benefited from zero duty under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

China has also imposed a 15% duty on US cotton imports. 

Faruque highlighted that this measure will benefit Bangladeshi spinning and textile millers by enabling them to purchase cotton at more competitive prices.

To capitalise on these opportunities, he said the government must address four major issues: ensuring an uninterrupted supply of gas and electricity, reducing prices, improving customs services, and strengthening law and order management.

The former BGMEA president added that attracting new investment and securing orders for Bangladesh depends on maintaining law and order, which remains a top priority. “The government should take immediate steps to stabilise the situation.”

Bangladesh February PMI records slower expansion rate

Bangladesh’s overall Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) score in February saw a decrease of 1.1 points from January to reach a score of 64.6.

Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), Dhaka and Policy Exchange Bangladesh (PEB) released the Bangladesh Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) February report on Sunday.

The February reading of the Bangladesh PMI declined by 1.1 points from the previous month to record a slower expansion rate at 64.6.

This latest PMI reading was attributed to a slower rate of expansion posted by the sectors of construction and services, whereas the sectors of agriculture and manufacturing posted faster expansion rates.

The agriculture sector posted a 5th month of expansion and at a faster rate. The sector posted a faster expansion rate for the indexes of new business, business activity, input costs, and order backlogs.

The employment index posted a slower contraction.

The manufacturing sector posted a 6th month of expansion and at a faster rate.

The sector posted faster expansion readings for the indexes of new orders, factory output, input purchases, and supplier deliveries.

Slower expansion rates were recorded for the indexes of new exports, finished goods, imports, and employment. The order backlogs index posted a faster contraction rate.

The construction sector posted a 3rd month of expansion and at a slower rate.

The sector posted slower expansion readings for the indexes of new business and construction activity, whereas the input costs index posted a faster expansion rate.

The employment index reverted to an expansion, and the order backlogs index posted a slower contraction rate.

The services sector posted a 5th month of expansion and at a slower rate. The sector posted a slower expansion rate for the indexes of new business, business activity, and employment.

The order backlogs index reverted to a contraction, and the input costs index posted a faster expansion rate.

In terms of the future business index, all key sectors of agriculture, manufacturing, construction, and services posted slower expansion rates.

Bangladesh’s PMI readings indicate sustained expansion for the fifth month, driven by continued growth in exports and seasonal uptick in agriculture, while construction and services recorded slower expansion. Business confidence remains weak due to sluggish demand, energy disruptions and continued protests. Sustained recovery depends on improved law and order, political consensus on election roadmap, and expedited implementation of priority reforms,” said M Masrur Reaz, chairman and CEO, PEB.

The PMI is a pioneering initiative that aims to offer timely and accurate insights into the country’s economic health to help businesses, investors and policy makers make informed decisions.

It was developed by MCCI and Policy Exchange, with support from the UK Government and technical support from Singapore Institute of Purchasing & Materials Management (SIPMM). 

RMG BANGLADESH NEWS