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Bangladesh Garment Industry Beyond Cotton

16 March 2024, Mumbai

Building on a $47 billion Success Story 

The Bangladeshi garment industry has seen phenomenal growth over the past 45 years, reaching a remarkable $47 billion export sector and capturing 7.87% of the global market. However, to achieve our ambitious target of a $100 billion export sector by 2030 and increase our global market share to 12%, we need to embrace a strategic shift.

Shifting Gears: From Cotton to Non-Cotton

The global fashion landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, with a growing demand for non-cotton fibers. Consumers are drawn to the functionality, affordability, competitiveness, and sustainability of man-made fibers like polyester and nylon, regenerated fibers like viscose rayon, and even other natural options like linen.

A Global Trend, a Local Opportunity 

While 75% of global apparel consumption and 57.5% of global textile trade are already non-cotton, our exports remain heavily reliant on cotton, with only 30% currently comprising non-cotton products. This shift presents a tremendous opportunity for Bangladesh.

Positive Signs and Future Potential

The encouraging increase in non-cotton exports over the past three years, coupled with rising imports of non-cotton fibers and textiles, indicates a promising future. However, to fully capitalize on this potential, we must address key challenges.

Charting the Course: The "Beyond Cotton" Report

The "Beyond Cotton" report, commissioned by Wazir Advisors Pvt. Ltd. with BGMEA's active involvement, tackles these challenges head-on. It outlines a roadmap for manufacturers, investors, policymakers, and other stakeholders to navigate the non-cotton textile and apparel market.

Key Insights and Actionable Steps

The report provides valuable insights from global leaders, industry evolution in competitor nations, and key enablers like investments, ecosystems, policies, and partnerships. It benchmarks our industry against leading non-cotton apparel producers and offers actionable recommendations for all stakeholders to enhance our collective competitiveness.

Cotton's Legacy, Non-Cotton's Future

While cotton remains a core strength, the "Beyond Cotton" report unlocks the exciting potential of diversification. This comprehensive analysis empowers you to plan your investments strategically and contribute to Bangladesh's garment industry reaching new heights.

CREDITSBGMEA press release

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BGMEA Reaches Out to Non-Resident Ambassadors in New Delhi

13 March 2024, Mumbai

Despite the pandemic's blow, swift actions like worker vaccinations and robust health protocols led to a remarkable industry recovery. The RMG sector, a national cornerstone, stands stronger today.

The country prioritized supporting SMEs with better services and affordable financing. The industry also championed policy changes for easier business, including extended tax stability and trade license validity.

Furthermore, the nation simplified banking activities and secured access to green financing schemes. This focus on sustainability is evident in the significant rise of green factories, solidifying Bangladesh's global leadership.

Market access expansion was crucial. "Apparel diplomacy" secured favorable trade terms and highlighted our commitment to sustainability and worker well-being. Notably, the EU eliminated a barrier to Bangladesh applying for GSP Plus.

The industry actively explored new markets and diversified products to transition the industry to value-added. The establishment of innovation centers and upskilling programs exemplifies this commitment. 

Challenges remain, like recent supply chain disruptions. Yet, sector navigated them effectively, showcasing the industry's resilience. Research initiatives are ongoing to pave the way for the next 15 years. The RMG sector, through proactive measures and continued collaboration, is well-positioned for a successful future.

CREDITSBGMEA press release

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Mango Expands Appetites

12 January 2024, Mumbai

500 New Stores, Homeware Push, and Leadership Shakeup

Spanish fast-fashion giant Mango is setting a growth feast, planning to open 500 new stores globally within five years. Targeting key markets like the US, Spain, and India, Mango aims for 40 US stores alone by year-end, savoring a bigger slice of the American market.

But their ambitions aren't confined to clothing racks. Mango Home, the brand's homeware arm, is set to get its dedicated stores in Barcelona and Madrid while expanding its online reach to Turkey. Eva Cárdenas, former Zara Home CEO, spices up the mix as an external advisor to guide Mango Home's growth.

Leadership is also getting a makeover. The board is expanding from four to nine members, with Margarita Salvans taking over as Chief Financial Officer, adding seasoning to the executive table.

This ambitious five-course plan reflects Mango's hunger for further success. Founded in 1984, the Barcelona-born brand now operates in over 115 markets and expects to exceed €3 billion in sales by 2023.

With more details about their 2024–26 strategy set to be revealed soon, one thing's for sure: Mango's future is looking fashionably flavorful.

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Bangladesh Surges Ahead in EU Clothing Imports

19 December 2023, Mumbai

Knitwear Domination: Bangladesh Claims Top Spot in EU Market

 

  • Bangladesh surpasses China in EU clothing imports (by volume) for the first time in 2022.
  • EU imported 1.33 billion KG from Bangladesh vs. 1.31 billion KG from China.
  • In value terms, China still leads with US$ 7.3 billion more than Bangladesh.

Knitwear Triumph: Bangladesh Takes No. 1 in Both Value and Weight (Jan-Sept 2023)

  • EU imported US$ 9 billion worth of knitwear from Bangladesh vs. US$ 8.96 billion from China.
  • By weight, Bangladesh exported 571 million KG vs. 442 million KG from China.
  • This marks a significant milestone for Bangladesh's knitwear in the EU.                               Key Success Factors:
    • EU's EBA scheme boosts growth and investment
    • Bangladesh leads in other categories:
      • EU Denim: #1 since 2014 (ahead of Turkey and Pakistan)
      • US Denim: #1 since 2020 (ahead of Mexico and Pakistan)
      • US Cotton Apparel: #1 till June 2023, closely behind Vietnam now (14.55% share in 2022)                                            Future Ambitions:
      • Reclaim top spot in US cotton apparel by 2024
      • Shift towards higher-value, non-cotton athleisure in EU

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Bangladesh: Tackled the Immediate Challenges Head-On

12 March 2024, Mumbai

Despite the pandemic's blow, swift actions like worker vaccinations and robust health protocols led to a remarkable industry recovery. The RMG sector, a national cornerstone, stands stronger today.

We prioritized supporting SMEs with better services and affordable financing. We also championed policy changes for easier business, including extended tax stability and trade license validity.

Furthermore, we simplified banking activities and secured access to green financing schemes. This focus on sustainability is evident in the significant rise of green factories, solidifying Bangladesh's global leadership.

Market access expansion was crucial. "Apparel diplomacy" secured favorable trade terms and highlighted our commitment to sustainability and worker well-being. Notably, the EU eliminated a barrier to Bangladesh applying for GSP Plus.

We actively explored new markets and diversified products to transition the industry to value-added. The establishment of innovation centers and upskilling programs exemplify this commitment.

  • Challenges remain, like recent supply chain disruptions. Yet, we navigated them effectively, showcasing the industry's resilience. Research initiatives are ongoing to pave the way for the next 15 years.

    The RMG sector, through proactive measures and continued collaboration, is well-positioned for a successful future.

CREDITSBGMEA press release

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Bangladesh Tops UK Clothing Supply Despite 2023 Slump

11 January 2024, Mumbai

WHY Bangladesh

Despite a recent drop in UK clothing imports, Bangladesh has become the top supplier by volume, claiming the crown from China.

Landmarks galore; This marks a major milestone in Bangladesh's rise to global apparel leadership.

While volume dominance is clear (28% market share), a 23% value share indicates scope for growth, particularly in higher-priced segments.

Revolutionising efficiencies

Moving beyond cost competition and towards value addition, niche markets, and backward integration will be key.

The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) is actively supporting this transformation through initiatives like the Center for Innovation, Efficiency and OSH.

As the industry embraces innovation and adapts to trends like virtual shopping and sustainable clothing, Bangladesh is poised to further solidify its position.

CREDITS: BGMEA press release

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Bangladesh RMG Soars in Value Addition

13 December 2023, Mumbai

Poised for LDC Graduation and Beyond

    • Local value addition in Bangladesh's RMG industry reaches a record 70.78% in Q1 FY24, marking significant progress.
    • Investments in greener facilities, diversified products, and vertical integration are driving the industry's transformation.
    • Preparing for LDC graduation by strengthening backward and forward linkages is crucial for long-term competitiveness.
    • Government support and buyer appreciation for local materials are essential to accelerate value addition.
    • The RMG industry's impact extends beyond exports, fueling growth in ancillary industries and contributing to the broader economy.

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Non-Traditional Markets Rise: Bangladesh RMG Blazes a New Trail

28 January 2024, Mumbai

Diversification pays off! While the US and EU remain key players, Bangladesh's RMG exports to non-traditional markets have surged over the past 15 years, exceeding our single largest market, the US, for the first time in 2023.

From 7.55% in 2009 to 18.72% in 2023, the share of non-traditional markets has steadily climbed. Visionary entrepreneurs, proactive policy support, and strategic initiatives like Apparel Diplomacy have fueled this impressive growth.

Japan leads the charge: exports soared from $111 million in 2009 to a staggering $1.67 billion in 2023, thanks to relaxed GSP rules. Other stars include Australia (up 38.15%), New Zealand (up 22.78%), and Brazil (up 48%).

The future beckons: China's shift towards higher-end production creates exciting opportunities for Bangladesh. ASEAN, Latin America, Russia, and East Europe hold immense potential.

Challenges remain: high tariffs, non-tariff barriers, and varying quality requirements exist in different markets. But BGMEA is working with the government to tackle these issues, and your input is valued!

Diversification is our priority as we graduate from LDC status. The success of non-traditional markets shows the resilience and adaptability of our RMG industry.

Let's build on this momentum and create a sustainable future for Bangladeshi apparel on the global stage!

CREDITS: BGMEA press release

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Yarn Expo Shenzhen 2024 Unwinds

08 January 2024, Mumbai

Dive into the Threads of Tomorrow

Mark your calendars, textile enthusiasts! Yarn Expo Shenzhen 2024 is weaving its way back to the Shenzhen Convention & Exhibition Center from June 5-7, 2024. Nestled in the heart of the Greater Bay Area's buzzing textile hub, this event promises to be a powerhouse of inspiration and connection.

Get ready to lose yourself in a vibrant tapestry of over 2,500 apparel brands, all gathered under one roof alongside three other textile trade fairs, including Intertextile Shenzhen Apparel. With an expected turnout exceeding 22,000, this expo is set to be a bustling hive of opportunity and collaboration.

More about it

But the threads of excitement extend beyond the sheer scale. The global yarn and textile market is forecast to experience phenomenal growth of 5.1% annually until 2028, reaching a staggering $18.5 billion by then.

This booming backdrop bodes well for both established yarn players and aspiring newcomers, making Yarn Expo Shenzhen 2024 the perfect platform to showcase your creations and tap into this thriving market.

Quotes

As Amy Yuan, Marketing Manager at Bettertex, aptly puts it, "The expo serves as a springboard for export businesses, leveraging the GBA's strong domestic and international connections." And to cater to the evolving consumer landscape, innovation will be a key theme.

Super-exciting:

Expect a dazzling array of functional and sustainable yarns, pushing the boundaries of what textiles can be.

So, whether you're a seasoned yarn veteran or a curious newcomer, Yarn Expo Shenzhen 2024 promises to be an unforgettable journey into the vibrant world of textiles. Dive into the latest trends, forge valuable connections, and spin your own success story at this must-attend event.

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RMG Exports: Positive Growth Amid Global Recession

23 January 2024, Mumbai

Despite a challenging global landscape, Bangladesh's RMG exports reached US$47.39 billion in 2023, with 3.67% growth.

This commendable feat shows industry's resilience in the face of global import reductions, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions.

Key Takeaways:

  • EU: Growth slowed to 1.49% from 28.49% in 2022. Germany, our largest destination, saw a significant decline. However, France, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands delivered strong positive growth.
  • USA: Our largest market experienced a decline of 8.68% due to a drop in woven garment shipments.
  • UK: Third largest market saw encouraging growth of 12.46%.
  • Non-traditional markets: Boosted by Japan (26.53% growth), total exports grew by 20.54%, reaching 18.72% of our clothing export share.

Looking Forward:

  • The global apparel trade might see a significant decline in 2023!

CREDITS: BGMEA press release

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How Bangladesh Scripted a Textile Success Story

06 January 2024, Mumbai

“Against the Global Storm, Bangladesh’s Garment Titans Roared"

Against the global storm, Bangladesh’s garment titans roared. A record US$47 billion in exports (10.27% growth) paints a picture of unwavering spirit.

Knitwear led the charge, woven threads followed, and December 2022 shimmered with the highest single-month export ever at US$4.67 billion. This surge cemented RMG’s dominance, pushing its share to 84.58%.

Video Insights

This feat defies global headwinds. The country owes it to entrepreneurs' relentless drive, unwavering government support, and BGMEA’s unwavering support. But diversification remains a siren call, as non-RMG dipped.

Yet, the sector is not just pushing volume; it is also pioneering paths. Uncharted markets beckon, backward linkages strengthen supply chains, and basic threads transform into higher-end marvels. 

This qualitative leap whispers of our agility and commitment to evolving tastes.

Sustainability is its guiding light

Bangladesh leads the world in USGBC LEED Green factories, and due diligence and circularity are textile trade mantras. Responsible Business Hub and CIEOSH illuminate the path to a greener future.

Resilient story

From turbulent skies, Bangladesh’s garment industry emerges, not just surviving but soaring with resilience and a green revolution in its heart.

CREDITS: BGMEA press release

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Global Apparel Conference Highlights China's Fashion Boom and Sustainable Future

11 December 2023, Mumbai

China's fashion industry is thriving, with domestic demand fueling growth despite a global slowdown. The 2023 Global Apparel Conference in Dongguan solidified this momentum, showcasing innovation and sustainability efforts.

Key takeaways:

  • Permanent home: The World Fashion Conference will be permanently held in Dongguan, recognizing its global apparel significance.
  • China's vibrant domestic market: Brick-and-mortar sales surged by 10.6%, with online sales increasing by 9.6%, highlighting a robust domestic market.
  • Projected growth: The Chinese apparel market is expected to reach $313.8 billion by 2023, with a CAGR of 4.3%.
  • Women's wear dominates: Women's wear holds the largest market share, with a significant volume of $169.5 billion in 2023.
  • Sustainability as a driving force: The Chinese T&A industry embraces sustainability through initiatives like Climate Innovation 2030 Action and Carbon Neutrality Vision.
  • ESG compliance is crucial: ESG criteria will be key for assessing corporate value, efficiency, and competitiveness.
  • Trends shaping success: Athleisure, gender fluidity, inclusive sizing, access to nature, and sustainable fashion are key trends for the T&A sector.
  • Adapting to a digital world: Digitization, AI-generated content, and smart production are shaping the future of the industry.
  • Leading brands: Hongxing Erke and Anta Sports leverage AIGC and digital influencers, demonstrating the sector's dynamic evolution.

This report offers a comprehensive look at the booming Chinese apparel market and its commitment to a sustainable future. The insights shared at the conference will undoubtedly influence industry practices, fostering a more responsible and innovative landscape in the years to come.

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