BGMEA President Faruque Hassan said Bangladesh would continue its efforts to remain to be a preferred choice of global apparel brands as a safe, ethical and sustainable sourcing destination.

He made the remark during a meeting with Halide Alagöz, Executive Vice President, Chief Supply Chain and Sustainability Officer at Ralph Lauren Corp. in New York on September 29.

Alongside the strides in safety and sustainability, the industry is also increasingly focusing on diversifying its products and building capacities to cater to the demands of global brands and buyers, Faruque Hassan said.

Importance is being given to up-grading particularly in the areas of skills and efficiency enhancement, technological upgrading, and diversification of products, especially non-cotton.

The BGMEA President requested Ralph Lauren to support and collaborate with their suppliers in Bangladesh to build their capacities in manufacturing apparel products having higher market demand.

Ralph Lauren is one of the world's largest fashion brands.