RMG Leaders Warn Airport Fire May Hurt Bangladesh’s Export Image
Leaders in Bangladesh’s ready-made garment (RMG) sector fear that the recent fire at Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport could lead to a loss of export orders and further damage the industry’s global reputation.
Speaking at a discussion titled “The Current Crisis and Path to Recovery of Bangladesh’s RMG Industry” in Dhaka on 2 November, industry representatives said the incident has raised concerns among international buyers regarding reliability and supply chain stability.
Shawkat Aziz Russell, President of the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA), said the fire has created a negative perception among foreign partners. “The world will think twice before placing orders in a country where even the international airport catches fire. The intangible damage to our reputation is far greater than the immediate losses,” he said. He also called for political stability to restore business confidence.
Garment Buying House Association President Mohammad Mofazzal Hosen Pabel said the disruption has already affected buyer trust. “Buyers are shifting orders to other countries, even at higher prices. Around 250 factories are already at risk of closure,” he cautioned.
BGMEA Director Faisal Samad noted that the destruction of samples and accessories at the airport could disrupt upcoming business seasons. “A lost sample or accessory worth a few thousand dollars can jeopardize deals worth much more,” he said. He also pointed to administrative hurdles that continue to delay courier services despite temporary arrangements.
Industry players said the sector is under severe pressure due to declining orders, rising operational challenges and financial stress. Sparrow Group Managing Director Shovon Islam said the situation is more difficult than during the pandemic. “Several factories are being classified as loan defaulters. There has been no policy support,” he stated.
Former Commerce Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, attending as chief guest, said Bangladesh’s business environment suffers from excessive regulation. He said deregulation would be prioritized if his party returns to power.
Industry leaders reiterated that restoring confidence, both domestically and internationally, is crucial for recovery, urging urgent policy attention and political stability to safeguard the country’s largest export-earning sector.
