Industry leaders have urged the government to introduce business-friendly policies to unlock the full potential of Bangladesh’s packaging and accessories sector, which they believe could surpass the readymade garment (RMG) industry in export earnings.The call was made at the closing ceremony of Garment Technology Bangladesh (GTB) 2026 held at ICCB, Dhaka. Speakers highlighted that the sector earned $7.45 billion in exports in the last fiscal year and has the capacity to grow further with proper policy support.
BGAPMEA President Md Shahriar warned that money launderers posing as businessmen have damaged the economy, stressing that genuine entrepreneurs do not exploit national wealth.
BTMA President Showkat Aziz Russell cautioned that allowing 100% duty-free imports and high port charges could undermine local industries, despite Bangladesh’s self-sufficiency in packaging and accessories.Chief guest and former commerce minister Altaf Hossain Chowdhury said the sector could outperform RMG exports if supported with the right policies and infrastructure. He added that his party would stand beside entrepreneurs if elected.
The four-day GTB 2026 exhibition featured over 350 companies from home and abroad, attracting more than 100,000 visitors and strengthening buyer-seller linkages.
