Bangladeshi denim exporters, fabric millers, and buyers are optimistic about strong business growth this year, thanks to increasing orders from major export markets. This optimism was highlighted at the 17th Bangladesh Denim Expo, which began yesterday in Dhaka. Industry leaders expressed confidence in surpassing last year’s setbacks and achieving new milestones.

Positive Momentum in the Industry

Syed M. Tanvir, managing director of Pacific Jeans, stated, “We have a good number of orders to run our production at full capacity, producing about 1.5 lakh units of jeans per day. Thanks to the influx of orders, we hope to achieve growth of up to 12%.” Last year, Pacific Jeans surpassed $500 million in exports, and Tanvir is optimistic about achieving 3% to 5% growth this year.

Other industry leaders shared similar sentiments. Shovon Islam, managing director of Sparrow Group, revealed that his factories are operating beyond capacity. To meet the extra demand, the company has launched a new production unit and is collaborating with subcontracting factories.

Tanvir Ahmed, managing director of Envoy Textiles, noted that the mill has been running at full capacity for months, with consistent orders for the future. He also emphasized the importance of sustainability, stating that Envoy plans to install a recycling plant as brands increasingly focus on using recycled yarn by 2030.

Amber Denim Mills, led by Showkat Aziz Russell, produces about 55 million yards of fabric monthly and has been experiencing 20% annual growth. However, Russell highlighted challenges such as unreliable power supply and labor issues, while urging the government to address these concerns to maintain stability in industrial zones.

Challenges and Opportunities

The denim sector’s growth is driven by its ability to innovate and produce both high-end and affordable products. According to Ziaur Rahman, H&M’s regional head for Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Ethiopia, “We see good opportunities here for business, considering the production capacity and affordability. No other countries have the capacity to replace Bangladesh.” However, he urged improvements in labor relations, mid-level management, and technology adoption.

Pacific Jeans’s Tanvir also pointed out that the future success of the industry depends on exporters’ ability to adapt, innovate, and focus on sustainability. “Product innovations and sustainability will give them an advantage for business growth,” he said.

Spotlight on the Denim Expo

The 17th Bangladesh Denim Expo, themed “The Blue New World,” showcases the country’s vibrant denim sector. With 44 exhibitors from seven countries, the event highlights sustainable practices, cutting-edge innovations, and high-quality production. Through exhibitions, seminars, and panel discussions, the expo aims to position Bangladesh as a trusted source of eco-friendly and high-value denim products.

Global Leadership in Denim

Bangladesh’s denim industry includes over 40 mills that meet more than 50% of the fabric needs for export-oriented garment production. Annual denim exports exceed $5 billion, cementing the country’s position as the largest exporter to the USA and EU.

The surge in orders reflects the resilience and adaptability of Bangladesh’s denim industry, setting the stage for sustained growth and further solidifying its reputation as a global leader in the sector.

Source: The Business Standard