Dhaka, Bangladesh: A day-long dialogue and exhibition was held in Dhaka to promote a
sustainable, resilient, and inclusive ready-made garment (RMG) sector in Bangladesh, while
advancing environmental and social compliance standards. The event was organized under the
PROGRESS project (Promoting Green Growth in the Ready-Made Garments Sector through Skills),
funded by the Embassy of Sweden and the Embassy of Switzerland, and implemented by
Swisscontact Bangladesh. Over 200 participants attended, including factory owners, international
clothing brand representatives, local advisory service providers, industry associations, financial
institute, technology service providers, NGOs, and development partners.
Delivering the opening remarks for the event, Helal Hussain, Country Director of Swisscontact
Bangladesh, emphasized the critical importance of sustainable production for the future of RMG
sector. He noted that, “ESG compliance is no longer optional; it is essential for remaining
competitive in the global supply chain. This green transition is not just about compliance; it is also
about climate, as Bangladesh is one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world. To stay
competitive in the global market, we must be part of the solution – reducing carbon emissions,
improving energy efficiency, and building resilience into production systems.”
Nayoka Martinez Bäckström, Head of Cooperation (in-charge) of the Embassy of Sweden in Dhaka,
in her welcome address stated: “Sustainability is not just a destination; it is a shared journey.
Climate change in Bangladesh affects everything, everywhere, all at once. It is therefore crucial to
view these standards holistically and assess how our industries and businesses contribute to
sustainability.”
She further added, “We are committed to being part of the fashion industry’s journey to achieve net-
zero by 2050. This is achievable if we all work together. The process would be even more effective
if regulatory authorities actively participate in these discussions.”
During the event, five sustainability reports from different factories, published with support from
PROGRESS, were unveiled. One of the factory representatives, M. Wahiduzzaman, General
Manager of Al-Islam Garments highlighted the importance of transparency and continuous
improvement in sustainability practices. He further added, “By focusing on safe workplace, fair labor
practices and environmental responsibility, we affirm our role in uplifting our employees,
communities and the planet.” The exhibition also featured booths from local advisory service
providers, and a dialogue session emphasizing on the need for local capacity development for
sustainable growth of the RMG sector in Bangladesh. This was followed by a high-level panel
discussion with panelists including industry experts, representatives from international brands,
development partners, advisory service providers, and academia.
The panel focused on “Navigating the Path to Net-Zero by 2050: A Reality Check for the RMG
Sector”. Experts highlighted that increasing the use of renewable energy, unlocking sustainable
financing opportunities, and joint responsibility between brands and factories, supported by local
technical service providers, are crucial for Bangladesh’s RMG sector to remain globally competitive.
Currently, renewable energy accounts for only 5.71% of Bangladesh’s electricity mix. The
government aims to increase this to 40% by 2041 and achieve carbon neutrality in the power sector
by 2050. Panelists at the event emphasized that progress in the RMG sector is essential to meet
these national goals. They urged factories to adopt sustainable technologies, develop skilled human
resources, and invest in green solutions without delay.
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