BKMEA leadership calls for faster energy transition to secure the future of Bangladesh RMG

From the report

On 7 October 2026, Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) and ETI Bangladesh jointly organized the second Rapid Energy Transition Conference at BKMEA Bhaban in Narayanganj. The conference brought together 71 participants, including 53 factory representatives and 10 members of BKMEA leadership, alongside brands, banks and renewable-energy service providers.

Opening the conference, Minhazul Hoque, Director of BKMEA and Director of Fatullah Dyeing & Calendaring Mills Ltd., urged manufacturers to think beyond immediate compliance and consider where their businesses need to be over the next five to ten years.

BKMEA President Mohammad Hatem emphasised that Bangladesh’s garment and textile industry must accelerate renewable-energy adoption and decarbonisation to remain competitive, protect export markets and strengthen long-term business resilience. He urged manufacturers to integrate carbon reduction into factory planning and make use of emerging policy, financing and rooftop-solar opportunities. He also emphasised stronger preparation for LDC graduation, EU requirements and better coordination with government agencies on permissions and approvals.