Muktadir for stronger Bangladesh-China partnership in green textile sector
Commerce, Industries, and Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir today stressed the need for greater Chinese investment, technology transfer, and innovation to transform Bangladesh’s textile and apparel industry into a sustainable, eco-friendly, and technology-driven sector. “China’s vast experience in industrialization, technological advancement, and poverty alleviation could play a significant role in Bangladesh’s industrial transformation,” he said. The Minister made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of the 2nd Bangladesh China Green Textile Expo 2026 here, said a press release.
In his speech, Muktadir urged Chinese investors to make meaningful investments that would create a win-win partnership between the two countries. Highlighting that China is Bangladesh’s largest trading partner, Muktadir emphasized the importance of increasing Chinese Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to help reduce the bilateral trade gap. He specifically sought Chinese cooperation in reopening and modernizing closed state-owned mills, revitalizing the jute sector, promoting renewable energy, and advancing green industrialization initiatives.
The minister noted that Bangladesh currently has the world’s highest number of green-certified garment factories, reflecting the growing environmental awareness among local entrepreneurs. He said the textile and garment sector must ensure efficient use of water, electricity, and fuel to remain globally competitive and environmentally sustainable. Expressing optimism about the exhibition, Muktadir said the joint initiative would create new opportunities for technology exchange, investment expansion, and sustainable industrial development.
Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen attended the event as special guest. Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) Director Shah Rayeed Chowdhury, Bangladesh China Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCCI) President Mohammad Khorshed Alam, Bangladesh Garments Buying House Association (BGBA) President Abdul Hamid Pintu, Savor International Limited Managing Director Md. Foyzul Alam, Chinese Enterprises in Bangladesh President Han Kun, and Overseas Chinese Association in Bangladesh Vice President Lisa Lu, among others, were present.
Following the inaugural ceremony, the minister visited different stalls at the expo. The three-day international exhibition has brought together leading textile and garment companies, investors, and technical experts from Bangladesh and China. The event also features seminars and panel discussions on eco-friendly and recyclable textile technologies. The expo remains open to visitors daily from 10am to 7pm and will conclude on May 16.
