November 3, 2025
DHAKA – A portion of new apparel work orders is shifting from Bangladesh to other countries because of political uncertainty and the ongoing gas and electricity crises, said a group of trade body leaders and exporters today.
As some local exporters fail to meet production targets and make timely shipments by sea, they are being forced to opt for costly air shipments to meet the strict deadlines set by international clothing retailers and brands.
In such a situation, small and medium-sized garment factories are struggling, as their financial strength is not sufficient to cope with the loss of work orders, the businesspeople said.
They made these remarks at a seminar titled “Current Challenges in the Garment Sector and the Way Forward” organised by the Bangladesh Garment Buying House Association (BGBA) at the Sonargaon Hotel in Dhaka.
BGBA President Md Mofazzal Hosen Pabel chaired the seminar.
“We are going through a difficult time because of the current uncertain situation in the country. If these challenges are not resolved soon, the crisis will only deepen,” said Mohammad Rashed, vice-president of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA).
BGBA Secretary General Mohammed Zakir Hossain said factories are unable to produce goods on time due to gas shortages and three to four hours of load-shedding every day, making timely shipments impossible.
“As a result, exporters are having to send goods to buyers via expensive air shipments, which is causing them significant financial losses,” he added.