B Mirror Report: The Prime Minister met with a delegation from the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), headed by President Mohammad Hatem, to talk about the opportunities, problems, and policy concerns that the nation’s ready-made garment (RMG) industry is currently facing.

During the meeting, BKMEA thanked the government for its initiatives to delay Bangladesh’s graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, efforts to reopen closed factories, and plans to introduce necessary amendments before passing the labour law in parliament.

The association also urged the government to ensure that currently operating factories remain functional to protect industrial continuity and employment in the sector.

In response, the Prime Minister assured the delegation that the government would discuss the issues with Bangladesh Bank and the National Board of Revenue (NBR) to take necessary measures. She also advised BKMEA leaders to submit banking and tax-related complications in written form for further action.

Highlighting the long-term development of the industry, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of product diversification, particularly expanding the silk sector and increasing the production of man-made fibre-based products. She also emphasized resolving the ongoing energy crisis affecting industries.

Among those present at the meeting were Education Minister Ehsanul Haque Milon, Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muqtadir, Housing and Public Works Minister Zakaria Taher Sumon, Prime Minister’s Adviser Mahdi Amin, and Narayanganj-1 MP Mostafizur Rahman Dipu Bhuiyan.

Representing BKMEA were Executive President Fazlee Shamim Ehsan, Senior Vice-President Amal Poddar, Vice-President (Finance) Morshed Sarwar Sohel, Vice-President Md Shamsuzzaman, and Fakir Kamruzzaman Nahid.

BKMEA expressed optimism that the government’s positive initiatives would help stabilize the industrial sector, boost exports, protect employment, and restore confidence among entrepreneurs.