Written by The Banking Post
Bangladesh’s packaging industry could emerge as a $50 billion export sector if it receives the right policy support, BNP Standing Committee member and former commerce minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said on Wednesday.
Speaking at the inauguration of GTB 2026, the country’s largest garment technology exhibition, he said the sector has growth potential comparable to the ready-made garment industry, which has already crossed the $50 billion export mark.
“If proper policies are put in place, the packaging industry can achieve the same scale,” he said, adding that a BNP-led government would formulate supportive measures to help the sector grow.
Highlighting global trends, he said packaging now plays a decisive role in consumer choice, often drawing more attention than the product itself. “The global packaging market is vast, but Bangladesh remains over-regulated for doing business, making entrepreneurship difficult. We also want to ensure a level playing field by addressing politically backed business monopolies,” he said.
He stressed that sustaining Bangladesh’s apparel success will require a shift away from labour-intensive production toward technology-driven, smart and environmentally sustainable manufacturing. Workforce skill development, he added, must be a joint priority for the public and private sectors.
Addressing the event as a distinguished guest, BKMEA President Mohammad Hatem said the local accessories industry has the capacity to meet domestic demand and urged restrictions on imports of items already produced locally at competitive quality.
BGAPMEA President Md Shahriar said Bangladesh is failing to tap into the estimated $700 billion global packaging market due to weak policy support and the absence of export incentives. He said direct exports from the packaging and accessories sector stand at nearly $1.6 billion, while deemed exports exceed $7.8 billion, but growth has stalled because of regulatory barriers.
“Direct exports of packaging products are not eligible for any cash incentive, while competing countries offer incentives ranging from 4 to 17 per cent,” he said, noting that the sector has never been brought under an export incentive scheme, undermining its global competitiveness.
GTB 2026, jointly organised by ASK Trade & Exhibitions Pvt Ltd and BGAPMEA, is being held at the International Convention City Bashundhara and will run until January 17. The exhibition is showcasing advanced garment machinery, accessories, packaging solutions, yarn and fabrics.
More than 450 brands from over 15 countries are participating across 1,500 booths, alongside two parallel events — GAPExpo 2026 and Bangladesh Yarn Fabrics & Accessories 2026 — making it the largest garment technology showcase in the country.
ASK Trade & Exhibitions Managing Director Tipu Sultan Bhuiyan said technological transformation is no longer optional for the garment and packaging industries. “The exhibition allows entrepreneurs to access global innovations that can improve efficiency and sustainability,” he said.
