A high-level delegation of YKK Group led by Masayuki Sarumaru, chairman of YKK Group, the world’s largest multinational zipper manufacturer based in Japan, paid a courtesy call on Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) President SM Mannan (Kochi) on 29 May.
The delegation also included Group Executive Vice President Koichi Matsushima, YKK Holding Asia President Kosuki Mimi, YKK Bangladesh Pte Ltd Managing Director Jin Deguchi, and YKK Bangladesh Pte Ltd Vice President Monir Uddin.
At this time BGMEA Senior Vice President Khandaker Rafiqul Islam, Vice President Arshad Jamal (Dipu), Vice President (Finance) Md. Nasir Uddin, Vice President Abdullah Hill Rakib, Director Ashiqur Rahman (Tuhin), Director Md. Mohiuddin Rubel, Director Md. Nurul Islam, former director Sajjadur Rahman Mridha, former director Mansurul Haque were present.
The aim of the meeting was to exchange views on matters of mutual trade interest with a special focus on Bangladesh’s ready-made garment industry, especially to explore opportunities to work together on a broader scale in the future.
In the discussion, BGMEA President SM Mannan (Kochi) said that Japan is the biggest partner in the economic development of Bangladesh and YKK Zipper is an important participant in the garment industry of Bangladesh.
He said that BGMEA and YKK Zipper working together can further advance the garment industry of Bangladesh, and both parties will benefit from it.
In the meeting, BGMEA leaders briefed the YKK delegation about the major priorities of the industry including product diversification, technology upgradation, skill development to maintain competitive capabilities in the coming days and discussed knowledge and technology transfer for BGMEA’s Innovation Center.
As WEIKK Group is a major stakeholder in the global market, BGMEA has also been requested to provide BGMEA with information on the global apparel market.
The discussion focused on various aspects of the ready-made garment industry, particularly the current situation, global market trends, opportunities and possibilities for the industry, and key priorities for the industry to maintain long-term competitiveness.
Chairman of YKK Group, Masayuki Sarumaru said in the meeting, Bangladesh has great potential to gain more share in the global clothing market even if Bangladesh is doing well. That’s why YKK is interested in investing more in Bangladesh’s garment industry. He said his group is keen to do more for inclusive development in Bangladesh. Therefore, the group wants to grow more business in Bangladesh and they want BGMEA to help them.
Both sides have expressed interest in working together for mutual benefit.
