DHAKA, July 19, 2023 (BSS) - The Bangladesh Apparel Summit was held at 
Melbourne, Australia yesterday organized by the Bangladesh Garment 
Manufacturers & Exporters Association (BGMEA) in collaboration with the HSBC 
Bank, supported by the High Commission of Bangladesh to Australia. 
 
This summit brought together a number of 130 participants from diverse range 
of stakeholders, including buyers, retailers, suppliers, consumers, 
development partners, and supportive Australian government policymakers, 
creating an opportunity for fruitful discussions, meaningful interactions, 
and the exchange of ideas and information. 
 
Throughout the day, the esteemed speakers shared their insights through 
opening plenary and two panel discussions titled 'Trade between Australia and 
Bangladesh - Charting the path for next decade' and 'Sustainability matters - 
ESG collaborations to shape the future of fashion', said a press release 
today.
 
President of BGMEA Faruque Hassan delivered a keynote presentation 
highlighting the immense potential of Bangladesh and critical issues such as 
supply chain transparency, responsible sourcing, and ethical manufacturing 
practices. He solicited collaboration for a future where the fashion industry 
flourishes prioritizing social, environmental, and responsible business norms 
and values. 
 
High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Australia M Allama Siddiki brought in the 
perspective of historic and cultural connections between the two nations and 
urged to exploit it for strengthening bilateral trade and investments on 
mutual interests. 
 
The event signified a milestone in fostering collaboration and strengthening 
the bonds between the apparel manufacturing industries of Bangladesh and 
Australian retailers. 

The tremendous contributions of the Australian apparel market to the growth 
of the Bangladesh garment industry was underscored, both during the pandemic 
and in the post-pandemic era. 

Discussions also encompassed issues related to rights and well-being of the 
workers, and ethical sourcing practices and sustainable trading by brands 
fostering responsible business. The speakers also stressed upon the 
importance of trade policies enabling business and economic interests of both 
countries, particularly with regard to policy priorities to support smoother 
transition for Bangladesh's graduation from LDCs.
 

Among the speakers, Managing Director of Kmart Group Ian Bailey praised 
Bangladesh's transformation on social and environmental sides, while stressed 
on the importance of leveraging industry level data and information sharing 
to steer supply chain efficiency and productivity. He opined to upgrade the 
tier 2 and tier 3 factories in Bangladesh while continuing the ESG standards 
in tier 1 factories. 
 
Antony Shaw, CEO of HSBC Australia praised the progresses Bangladesh has made 
in its industry and the overall infrastructure. While HSBC takes pride in 
being a partner of this transformation, he reiterated continued partnership 
with Bangladesh. 
 
Joanne Ryan MP, Federal Member for Lalor and Chief Government Whip made her 
special remarks at the closing of the event assuring policy supports that 
benefits people and economies of both countries. 
 
Matt Fregon, MP, Deputy Speaker of Victoria legislative and Shadow Minister 
for Trade and Investment David Southwick MP of Victoria also attended the 
sessions in the Summit. 
 
The event included an exclusive photo exhibition of Bangladesh and its rich 
heritage and nature. A product showcasing was organised featuring the latest 
collections and diverse portfolio, which gave a clear impression of 
Bangladesh's capability.