It is good to note that Bangladesh ranks second in the export of Readymade Garments (RMG) to the European Union (EU). According to Eurostat statistics, the European Union (EU) apparel imports from Bangladesh increased by 35.69 percent in 2022 compared to that in 2021. Reportedly, the EU imported $22.89 billion worth of clothing from Bangladesh
in 2022.
Over the last few years we have seen some remarkable changes in our industrial infrastructures. Also, international retailers have got back their confidence to invest in Bangladesh. Besides, some of the biggest apparel exporters have been losing their share in global market because of higher costs of production and shortage of workers. As a result, work orders are being diverted to Bangladeshi factories. Therefore, we should take the privilege of low cost production that we are enjoying in Bangladesh.
It is time to add more diversified
products to our export basket in
order to sustain economic growth
Bangladesh needs to pay more attention to devise an alternative strategy that encourages diversification of exports, both in terms of products and destination. It is time to add more diversified products to our export basket in order to sustain economic growth, increase investment opportunities, and create more jobs, particularly for women.
Also, there is a need for an exemption of taxes on raw materials and backward linkage industries to survive competition with others, which will help expand the country’s export earnings.
In order to boost the export earning, export of Halal products can play a big role. Halal products have a huge demand in the international market, even in the European market, because of their distinct quality. We believe, with proper support from the authorities concerned, Bangladesh can earn more by exporting Halal products.
The government's recent initiatives to promote thrust sectors including pharmaceuticals, agro-products, plastics, ICT, shipbuilding, furniture, are moving in the right direction. But at the same time it is true that in order to sustain the current tempo of the country’s export growth, our efforts to solve infrastructure, power, and institutional bottlenecks need to be followed through.
Also, a comprehensive policy package coupled with supportive governmental incentives will help our export industry grow further. We are capable of making the best quality products at low prices. Hence, the government needs to encourage entrepreneurs by giving several fiscal and technical support.
