A high-level business delegation from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) is set to  visit Ankara to expand bilateral trade and strengthen strategic partnerships in the textile sector. Photo: BGMEA

DHAKA, April 19, 2026 (BSS) - A high-level business delegation from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) is set to 
visit Ankara to expand bilateral trade and strengthen strategic partnerships in the textile sector.

This initiative follows a meeting today between the Turkish Ambassador to Bangladesh, Ramis Sen, and BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan at the BGMEA Complex in the city, said a press release.

During the meeting, Ambassador Sen emphasized the importance of a high-level delegation visit to Turkey to further economic relations. 

BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan welcomed the proposal, stating that Turkey represents a highly promising market for product diversification for 
Bangladesh. 

The BGMEA President specifically called for joint investments in Bangladesh's Man-Made Fiber (MMF) and technical textile sectors.

He highlighted that Turkey's robust refining capabilities could play a vital role in providing cost-effective raw materials for the Bangladeshi apparel 
industry.

Both parties discussed the necessity of signing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the withdrawal of the safeguard duty that has been in effect since 2011. 

Technical aspects regarding duty-free access for garments produced using Turkish cotton were also reviewed during the meeting.

In this context, BGMEA expressed a keen interest in importing organic cotton and modern textile machinery from Turkey.

To enhance global market reach, the meeting explored the potential of utilizing the advanced logistics facilities of Turkish Airlines and Istanbul 
Airport for faster product delivery. 

Furthermore, the BGMEA President sought Turkey's diplomatic support regarding a proposal to slightly delay Bangladesh's LDC (Least Developed Country) 
graduation process. 

Addressing administrative hurdles, Ambassador Sen assured full cooperation in simplifying the visa process for Bangladeshi garment merchandisers.

The meeting concluded with both sides expressing optimism that this strategic partnership will significantly enhance the capabilities of the Bangladeshi 
RMG industry, expand its market reach, and ensure long-term sustainable growth.