Stay alert to plot against RMG: PM BGMEA unveils $50b export target by 2021→ Staff Correspondent Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday directed the authorities concerned to remain alert to a cabal of conspirators at home and abroad who are trying to destroy the country’s ready-made garment industry. “As Bangladesh has been the second-largest apparel exporter, many dislike this feat and conspire against the sector,” she said while inaugurating a three-day Dhaka Apparel Summit 2014 at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre. “I call upon factory owners, apparel makers, labourers, foreign buyers and consumers to remain alert to the conspirators,” the premier made the call. Bangladesh Garments Manufacturers and Exporters Association organised the event which parades progress in the sector and work out a plan to reach a $50-billion export landmark by 2021—the golden jubilee of country’s independence. Hinting at owners and labourers, Hasina said, “We are able to resolve any problem if takes place in this sector. But you have to alert so that nobody can hatch conspiracies centring the readymade industry.” The biggest export-earning sector reached such a position after facing obstacles since the 1990s, and the Awami League-led government always stood by the sector and extended financial and other support, she mentioned. “We’ll continue with such assistance as it’s our responsibility to do so,” the PM said, urging factory owners to introduce smart designs and step up production to compete with rivals in the global marketplace. Appealing to the buyers to raise the prices of products, she said, “We hope the world’s top apparel buyers will be with us. Because of them, the garments produced in Bangladesh are the best.” The premier asked the apex trade body of apparel exporters for taking measures to uphold the position. Listing various government steps for development of the sector, she said European Union, Norway, Switzerland and Japan have relaxed their rules of origin under GSP because of state measures. “Some 46 products get duty-free facilities in India while 98 per cent products in China.” Urging owners to utilise such advantages, Hasina said, “You search new global markets while the government will remain with you. We have to increase export volume on the global market. And we have the capacity.” Apparel has become the biggest export-oriented sector within a span of three decades. The country used to export some $10,000 in 1987 while it exported over $24 billion last year. BGMEA has set a target of $50 billion by 2021—the benchmark year of government to turn the country into a middle-income one. The PM said the government has made a move to raise power and gas production. “We’re keen to import power as well as capacity of the ports.” Urging buyers to increase product rates, she said, “Representatives from many countries are present here. I request you to increase the rate of products to pave the way for garment workers in leading a decent life.” Calling to create more employments to build Sonar Bangla as dreamt by father of the nation Bangabandhu, Hasina said, “My government attaches importance to creating a congenial atmosphere for investment. I urge investors at home and abroad to take the opportunity.” After the devastating Tazreen fire in 2012 and the 2013 Rana Plaza tragedy that left over 1000 workers dead, a US and EU alliance visited over 2000 factories to inspect workplace safety and environment here. Of the factories inspected, some 29 were shut for poor infrastructure. Pointing at the number, the premier said majority of the factories are now being run without loopholes. “The rest of the factories are making essential repair works to ensure worker safety.” She also inaugurated the International Trade Expo for Building and Fire Safety 2014 on the occasion. Senior ministers AMA Muhith, Amir Hossain Amu and Tofail Ahmed also spoke. - See more at: daily-sun/details_Stay-alert-to-plot-against-RMG:-PM_1060_1_1_1_1.html#sthash.8njzzJYh.dpuf
Posted on: Mon, 08 Dec 2014 07:46:52 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015