Faruque Hassan, President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), met with Spencer Fung, Executive Chairman of Li & Fung, and Ms. Deepika Rana, Chief Executive Officer of Li & Fung, in Hong Kong on December 13. 

The meeting, also attended by Azfar Hassan, Director of Giant Group, focused on fostering collaboration and discussing important trade-related matters within the apparel industry of Bangladesh.

Discussions ranged from the current state of the global apparel industry to the potential prospects for Bangladesh, along with Li & Fung's strategic plans for business expansion within the country.

Among the key points discussed was the exploration of avenues for collaboration between Li & Fung and BGMEA to unlock opportunities for the Bangladesh apparel industry. 

They also discussed potential partnerships and strategies to tap into the industry's untapped potential.

Their talks encompassed the possible collaboration between Li & Fung and BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology (BUFT) to enhance the knowledge and skills of students, particularly in areas such as product and design development and the latest manufacturing technologies.

Faruque Hassan urged Li & Fung to consider increasing garment sourcing, especially value-added products from Bangladesh. 

In his remarks, Spencer Fung, Executive Chairman of Li & Fung, commended the pivotal role played by BGMEA in advancing Bangladesh's garment industry. 

He specifically highlighted BGMEA's contributions to market promotion and branding through apparel diplomacy.

Expressing optimism about the global market opportunities for Bangladesh's apparel industry, Fung encouraged the sector to adapt to changing market dynamics actively. 

He also suggested that Bangladesh could consider manufacturing hard goods for exports.

Both parties expressed their interest in forging a mutually beneficial partnership for the growth and development of the apparel industry in Bangladesh.