Faruque Hassan, President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) held a meeting with Ms. Karin Lind, Global Head of Sourcing, and Fredrik Kragh Myllenberg, Head of Controlling Global Production, from H&M Group, a leading global fashion retailer. 

The meeting, held in Hong Kong on December 11, focused on fostering a long-term partnership, expanding H&M's business in Bangladesh, and jointly driving sustainability initiatives within the garment industry. 

The meeting was also attended by Azfar Hassan, Director of Giant Group.  

Both sides highlighted the ongoing collaboration between H&M Group and BGMEA to achieve shared sustainability goals in the garment sector, particularly the transition towards a circular and climate-neutral garment industry in Bangladesh. 

Faruque Hassan extended gratitude to H&M Group for their support to Bangladeshi suppliers in implementing the recently announced minimum wage by adjusting prices on their orders.  

He also thanked H&M Group for its pledge to invest in renewable energy in Bangladesh, aligning with global efforts to reduce emissions. 

In a landmark announcement at COP28, global fashion leaders H&M Group and Bestseller pledged to invest in a 500MW offshore wind power project in Bangladesh. Developed by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), the project is expected to reduce emissions by approximately 725,000 tonnes annually. 

Highlighting Bangladesh's focus on innovation, technological advancements, environmental sustainability, and skill development within the apparel industry, Faruque Hassan urged H&M Group to strengthen its partnership with Bangladeshi suppliers for further business expansion. 

As Bangladesh aims to move up the value chain by diversifying into high-value products and upgrading technologies, he requested H&M Group to collaborate with their suppliers on developing high-end apparels. 

Faruque Hassan also called on H&M Group to increase its sourcing of garments, especially high-value products and those made from man-made fibers, from Bangladesh.