The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has announced the formation of a dedicated Market Strategy Development with Japan Committee aimed at boosting Bangladesh’s ready-made garment (RMG) exports to Japan.
The initiative reflects BGMEA’s broader strategy to diversify export destinations beyond traditional markets and tap into high-potential regions like Japan. The move comes in the wake of the recently signed Bangladesh–Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which is expected to strengthen bilateral trade and open new growth opportunities for the RMG sector.
Japan’s apparel import market is currently valued at approximately USD 24.28 billion. Bangladesh holds a 5.63% share—equivalent to around USD 1.37 billion—leaving significant room for expansion. The newly formed committee will work to increase this share through structured strategies and coordinated industry engagement.
The committee convened its inaugural meeting at the BGMEA Complex in Dhaka, where members discussed key initiatives to enhance trade facilitation, particularly in garment exports.
A major recommendation from the meeting was the establishment of a dedicated Japan Desk within BGMEA. This platform will support member factories through market intelligence, buyer sourcing, and coordination with leading Japanese organizations such as JETRO, JICA, JBCCI, and JCIAD.
The desk will also provide grievance resolution and arbitration support for disputes involving Japanese companies, aiming to foster a more transparent and business-friendly environment.In addition, the committee will facilitate stronger business linkages between Bangladesh and Japan by promoting participation in trade fairs and bilateral exchange programs.
The committee is chaired by Mijanur Rahman, with Mohammed Sohel serving as Coordinator. Advisors include Mahmud Hasan Khan, Tareq Rafi Bhuiyan Jun, and Kazi Sarwar Habib.
Committee members include Shah Rayeed Chowdhury, Faisal Samad, and Nafis Ud Doula.
Industry stakeholders believe the initiative will play a crucial role in strengthening Bangladesh’s position in the Japanese apparel market and advancing long-term export growth.
