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When Bangladesh has a lot of prideful elements to cover, international media are casting the country in a negative light, Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) President Faruque Hassan said.
He made the comment at a press briefing organised at the apex trade body’s Dhaka office on Sunday on the occasion of Bangladesh heritage festival.
The three-day festival began on Sunday at the BGMEA’s Dhaka office. Forty local traditional micro-entrepreneurs are taking part in the festival which will remain open to all from 10 am to 8 pm.
Entrepreneurs are expecting that they will be able to attract brands to the exhibition.
The BGMEA president said, “We feel sad when we see that our beautiful Bangladesh is still portrayed in a negative light on various international media.”
“But we have a rich culture, history, and tradition to tell the world to be proud of. There are traces of the oldest civilisations like Sompur Vihar and Kantjiu Temple.”
When journalists asked about the name of particular media or reports, he denied disclosing it and said, “We have hundreds of examples, but I don’t want to say this at the press conference.”
Faruque Hassan said that BGMEA decided to highlight Bangladesh’s heritage, history and culture among the local community and the world, and branding will help cash in on the export opportunity.
India and Africa are already using their traditions and getting a good response in the global market.
“If we can present our traditions and identities in the global market following global trends, designs and standards, then new areas of export income will be created and we will be able to export high-end products.”
“On the other hand, lost traditions and employment will be secured,” he added.
Faruque said that thanks to BGMEA’s efforts, export earnings from heritage and traditional goods are growing. They train weavers and designers to help manufacturers manufacture international standard goods, and BGMEA bears all expenses.
“We open a new window for micro-entrepreneurs to export their goods through BGMEA and its members. Besides, if anyone wants to export directly, BGMEA will support them.”
Replying to a question about the ongoing RMG market situation, the BGMEA chief said, “Despite a huge challenge, we are trying to increase exports. Although our exports to the US market have declined due to their economic headwinds, we are doing well in the non-traditional markets.”
“Besides, our key destinations such as the USA and European Union have a downtrend in inflation, and their authority is not increasing the interest rate. On the other hand, brands have had a good sale in recent times. We are optimistic that export earnings in the USA and EU will recover soon.”
