AMSTERDAM – Bangladesh this week kicked off a 2-day branding event in the Netherlands as it looks to further cement business ties with the European Union. Best of Bangladesh Europe is showcasing progress at the South East Asian garment production powerhouse, including advances in sustainable production and technological innovations.
The event was established by global garment industry entrepreneur Mostafiz Uddin, owner of Denim Expert and founder of Bangladesh Apparel Exchange (BAE). BAE organised Best of Bangladesh Europe with support from the Embassy of Bangladesh, Ministry of Commerce and Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) of Bangladesh.
Over 1000 European visitors, including representatives from brands and retailers are expected to attend.
The event will stage six interactive panel sessions on topics relating to sustainable sourcing, climate action, garment worker safety and impact investing.
A Bangladesh Innovation Runway will be presented by Pacific Jeans at the event. The Bangladesh Innovation Runway showcased the ability of the country to produce high end, sustainable and innovative apparel products.
Attendees include Tipu Munshi, MP, Commerce Minister, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh; Michiel Sweers, Vice Minister of Foreign Economic Relations, Kingdom of the Netherlands; Shahriar Alam, MP, State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh; Md Siddiqur Rahman, Former president of BGMEA; M Riaz Hamidullah, Ambassador of Bangladesh to the Netherlands; Leslie Johnston, chief executive officer, Laudes Foundation; Pallak Seth, founder & vice chairman, PDS Limited; and Mostafiz Uddin, founder & CEO, Bangladesh Apparel Exchange.
Michiel Sweers, Vice Minister of Foreign Economic Relations, Kingdom of the Netherlands, said “On behalf of the government of the Netherlands I welcome you all and thank you for choosing Amsterdam as the location of Best of Bangladesh. I believe dialogues here in the Best of Bangladesh will accelerate the momentum of sustainable business.”
Shahriar Alam, MP, State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh; said “The presence of some of the best of our entrepreneurs under one roof in Westergas speaks of coming of the age of the drive and innovation of our private sector. They transcend beyond labour-centric manufacturing. They are increasingly keen to step into many other sectors. As much as business, they are here also to tap into niche technology or innovation with the Dutch or European peers.”
Mostafiz Uddin, Founder & CEO, Bangladesh Apparel Exchange, said: “Best of Bangladesh Europe is a testament to Bangladesh’s ability in sustainable and responsible manufacturing.”
