The garment producers’ forum today requested Switzerland to prolong duty-free access to Bangladeshi clothing for ten years under the Everything But Arms programme in order to support Bangladesh’s seamless transition to a developing country.
The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) made the request after Swiss Ambassador Nathalie Chuard paid a visit to BGMEA President Faruque Hassan at the association’s headquarters.
They reviewed the garment industry’s accomplishments in terms of social and environmental sustainability, as well as the industry’s future prospects. They also discussed the necessity for an industrial upgrade, especially in the areas of talent and efficiency development, technical knowledge, and product diversification (especially non-cotton).
The BGMEA requested diplomatic support for the need for a consistent code of conduct for social audits, as well as partnership to highlight the untold tales of the industry’s change.
The Swiss ambassador expressed her pleasure with the industry’s success in the field of sustainable manufacturing and pledged her government’s assistance.
Chuard was joined by Thomas Baumgartner, the embassy’s head of political, economic, and cultural activities.
Syed Nazrul Islam, First Vice President of the BGMEA, and Vice President Md Shahidullah Azim were also present.