A high-level delegation of Chinese investors met with leaders of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association at the BGMEA Complex in Uttara to explore investment and partnership opportunities that could help the textile and apparel sector grow more competitive. The meeting was led by BGMEA Senior Vice President Inamul Haq Khan and the Chinese team was led by Frank Yi of BETTEX Industries, with BGMEA Vice President Md. Shehab Udduza Chowdhury and other directors attending. Representatives from textile and fiber makers, IT and artificial intelligence firms, supply chain technology groups, advanced manufacturers, education and research institutions, and law firms joined the talks to share ideas and find practical ways to work together. Participants spoke about the need to strengthen backward linkages so local suppliers can make higher-value inputs such as man-made fiber, advanced fabrics and specialty chemicals, which would help reduce import costs and shorten delivery times. Speakers noted that upgrading machinery and adopting modern processes can let local plants produce more complex items and win new buyers, while better local inputs can keep more value inside the country and create steady jobs. The Chinese group said they were open to joint ventures and named AI-powered manufacturing, integrated supply chains, 3D product profiling and digital product passports as areas of interest. BGMEA leaders encouraged investors to explore renewable energy and technology investments that would lower factory costs and support greener operations, and they stressed the value of training and research to build a skilled workforce. A proposal for an intensive coordination meeting was welcomed so business teams can work through practical steps, and a suggestion to sign an academic and research cooperation deal with a prominent Chinese business school drew positive attention. Discussion also covered practical support like easier dispute resolution through legal partnerships, help meeting international testing and safety standards, and ways to improve logistics and port links to speed shipments. Delegates agreed to arrange visits to major fabric hubs and production sites, which would help investors see local opportunities firsthand and build trust through direct contact and pilot projects. Industry hosts said they want clear, fair rules and a phased plan so benefits reach small and medium makers as well as big firms. The meeting closed on an upbeat note with both sides agreeing on follow up work to map priorities, draft possible agreements and create channels for more regular communication so ideas can turn into real projects. They also emphasized local training, skill transfer and pilot projects to ensure workers gain skills and factories run smoothly, and business groups said early collaboration on technology, inputs and training could improve competitiveness, create jobs and help the sector supply more high-value goods to global buyers while growing local skills and industry resilience.
