Despite diplomatic tensions between Dhaka and Washington regarding US Visa restrictions and the EU’s concerns about human rights in Bangladesh, as well as not sending election observers for the next national polls, leaders in the apparel sector are confident that their exports will continue smoothly.
Faruque Hassan, president of the apex body of the apparel sector – BGMEA, at a press conference at the association’s Dhaka office on Tuesday, said that the US Visa restriction policy applies to individuals and select persons.
"The US has the right to determine who is eligible to enter their country, and they have imposed such policies in the past, which did not impact our exports. There are no sanctions in the business area," Faruque explained.
He added, "The US has some concerns about our business area, and we are addressing them. The US has always supported workers' rights, and I believe they will not make any decisions that will impact the lives of our citizens."
In the same event, former BGMEA president and ruling party lawmaker Shafiul Islam Mohiuddin revealed that during his visit to the EU last year, regional allies raised some concerns about labour and human rights.
"The EU informed me during my visit that they are giving less priority to Bangladesh for sending election observers, as democracy is continuing here. They also mentioned that they have a manpower shortage to observe polls in other countries and are focusing on autocratic countries," Mohiuddin said.
He further noted, "Democracy also faces questions around the world, and we are also part of this. But since we are on the path of democracy, the EU is not sending observers here. So, there is no reason for our exports to be impacted."
Responding to a question about less export earning repatriation, he clarified, "We make a 4-5 per cent profit from the ready-made garment business, so there is no chance for money laundering. But those who borrow money from the bank and do not return it are involved in money laundering."
“Alongside Hallmark, Crescent, some so-called gentlemen are also involved in money laundering. But I can guarantee that no exporter is involved in such crimes.”
Regarding allegations of laundering Tk 300 crore against 10 exporters, where four are BGMEA members and two are members of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association, Faruque questioned the customs' actions.
He said, "The allegation is baseless, and we will take legal action against customs authorities. How did they send a press release to the media about the allegation before the trial? The media reports damage the apparel sector and Bangladesh's reputation in the global community."
Mohiuddin added, "Our internal investigation found that these 10 exporters are not guilty. So, customs authorities will have to prove that they are guilty, otherwise, we will not tolerate their illegal activities."
Mohiuddin also mentioned that due to the ongoing global economic crisis, export growth to the EU market is likely to achieve less than 1 per cent this year, with a similar scenario in the US market.
