BGMEA and Germany’s development agency GIZ formalised a collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at strengthening sustainability in the country’s apparel sector. The MoU, effective from May 2026 to February 2028, sets a framework for joint action on circularity, decarbonisation and energy efficiency across factories and supply chains.
Signing and participants
The agreement was signed at the BGMEA Complex in Uttara by BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan and Gundolf Klaehn, on behalf of GIZ Cluster Coordinator Thomas Rolf. BGMEA Vice Presidents Vidiya Amrit Khan and Mohammad Rafique Chowdhury attended, along with Directors Shah Rayeed Chowdhury, Sheikh Hossain Muhammad Mustafiz and Enamul Aziz Chowdhury. GIZ Bangladesh delegation members included Dr Michael Klode, head of the STILE II project, and Md Tanvir Masud.
Scope and project links
Under the MoU, BGMEA and GIZ will implement measures through projects such as STILE II (Sustainability in the Textile and Leather Industries) and SCAIP (Skills for Self-Monitoring and Compliance with Clean and Fair Production in the Textile Industry). The Ministry of Commerce, Export Promotion Bureau and the Department of Environment will remain engaged in implementation.
The partnership aims to prepare factories for evolving European market requirements on supply chain due diligence, traceability, circularity and decarbonisation. The Responsible Business Helpdesk will be strengthened as part of these efforts.
Technical focus areas
Technical guidance under the pact will cover improved chemical management, pollution reduction, and compliance with international environmental standards. Support will include regular energy audits, targeted energy efficiency measures, and technical training to build skills in renewable energy and sustainable operations.
The agreement also foresees development of digital tools: databases to support workers’ social protection, a digital marketplace for textile waste management, and platforms to facilitate technology partnerships. The Shokti Konna network will be further supported to encourage greater female participation in engineering and management roles.
Coordination and leadership
BGMEA Vice President Vidiya Amrit Khan will serve as the focal point for German technical cooperation initiatives. GIZ will coordinate directly with BGMEA sub-groups on “Circularity, Decarbonisation and Energy Efficiency” and “Data and Responsible Business Helpdesk” to ensure coordinated implementation and strategic communication.
BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan said the partnership would mark a milestone in positioning the country’s apparel industry as a responsible and environmentally sustainable sourcing destination. GIZ representatives reiterated their commitment to continue technical support for the sustainable transformation of the sector.
