BGMEA team to visit Ankara to boost BD-Turkey trade ties

This initiative follows a meeting today between the Turkish Ambassador to Bangladesh, Ramis Sen, and BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan at the BGMEA Complex in the city, said a press release.

During the meeting, Ambassador Sen emphasized the importance of a high-level delegation visit to Turkey to further economic relations. 

BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan welcomed the proposal, stating that Turkey represents a highly promising market for product diversification for Bangladesh. 

The BGMEA President specifically called for joint investments in Bangladesh's Man-Made Fiber (MMF) and technical textile sectors.

He highlighted that Turkey's robust refining capabilities could play a vital role in providing cost-effective raw materials for the Bangladeshi apparel industry.

Both parties discussed the necessity of signing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the withdrawal of the safeguard duty that has been in effect since 2011. 

Technical aspects regarding duty-free access for garments produced using Turkish cotton were also reviewed during the meeting.

In this context, BGMEA expressed a keen interest in importing organic cotton and modern textile machinery from Turkey.

To enhance global market reach, the meeting explored the potential of utilizing the advanced logistics facilities of Turkish Airlines and Istanbul 
Airport for faster product delivery. 

Furthermore, the BGMEA President sought Turkey's diplomatic support regarding a proposal to slightly delay Bangladesh's LDC (Least Developed Country) graduation process. 


Addressing administrative hurdles, Ambassador Sen assured full cooperation in simplifying the visa process for Bangladeshi garment merchandisers.

The meeting concluded with both sides expressing optimism that this strategic partnership will significantly enhance the capabilities of the Bangladeshi RMG industry, expand its market reach, and ensure long-term sustainable growth, reports BSS.