The 22nd edition of Garment Technology Bangladesh (GTB) has officially commenced, taking place concurrently with the 14th edition of the Garment Accessories & Packaging Expo (GAP Expo 2025). Organised by ASK Tradeshows & Exhibitions Pvt Ltd in collaboration with the Bangladesh Garment Accessories & Packaging Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGAPMEA), the event is being held at the International Convention City, Bashundhara, Dhaka. The inauguration ceremony was held on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, and featured 500 exhibitors from 25 countries, showcasing innovations across eight exhibition halls.
The inauguration took place at 11 AM on the Mezzanine floor of Hall Number 4, with the Honorable Advisor to the Ministry of Commerce, Textiles, and Jute, Mr. Sheikh Bashir Uddin, attending as the chief guest. The ceremony also welcomed HE Mr. Young-sik, the Korean Ambassador to Bangladesh, as a special guest, alongside notable figures such as Mr. Md. Shahriar, President of BGAPMEA, and other industry leaders.
In his address, Mr. Sheikh Bashir Uddin highlighted the contributions of BGAPMEA member factories to the Bangladesh economy, stating, “I am very glad to know the contribution of BGAPMEA member factories to our economy and I believe there are still huge opportunities to explore more. I will be happy to hear more for further development of this industry. We are currently passing hard time on gas price issue, I will encourage to use solar energy in industries. I thank all for contribution for our national development.”
Mr. Young-sik added, “Bangladesh is a very potential market for textile. We have a very good business partnership with Bangladesh and we are looking forward for more investment from Korean manufacturers.” This sentiment underlines the increasing interest from international investors, particularly from Korea, in the Bangladeshi textile market.
Mr. Tipu Sultan Bhuiyan, Managing Director of ASK Trade Show and Exhibitions Private Limited, remarked on the recent fluctuations in the industry, noting, “Although we experienced a slight downturn in 2024, order volumes have increased significantly now. The diversification and expansion of non-cotton garments, especially sportswear, have introduced new types of changes, increasing the demand for specialized machinery, which is consistently showcased at the GTB exhibition. GTB is showcasing the latest innovations in sewing, laundry, finishing, CAD/CAM, and embroidery.”
The Bangladeshi Ready-Made Garment (RMG) sector also shows positive growth outlooks, reflecting an optimism for 2025. Following a notable 6.23% growth in export earnings in 2024, the sector is stepping into 2025 on a stronger footing despite challenges such as political instability and labour unrest. The reduction in inflation in key markets such as Europe and America has prompted a resurgence of interest from Western buyers.
Open to business visitors from 11 AM to 7 PM, GTB and GAP Expo 2025 provides a robust platform for stakeholders across the garment and textile manufacturing value chain. The event facilitates significant networking opportunities for decision-makers, technical heads, and sourcing teams, enhancing their capacity to source cutting-edge technology, machinery, garment accessories, packaging, and other allied products.
This comprehensive tradeshow continues to affirm its position as a pivotal event for the global apparel sector, emphasising the ongoing evolution within the industry and the collaborative efforts necessary to drive further growth and innovation.
Source: Noah Wire Services