It is encouraging to learn that there is likelihood of Bangladeshi readymade garments further expanding its market in Japan. If the possibility translates into reality, the RMG sector will definitely get a big boost and thus contribute further to the economy. A business page report in Tuesday Independent tells us sector leaders predict that, if handled properly, Bangladesh RMG export to Japan may reach US$ 1 billion (in a market worth about $25 billion) even in the current fiscal. Our delegation has been happy as Japanese buyers in a three-day International Fashion Fair held recently in Tokyo were impressed by some garment products including hand-stitched decoration pieces like ‘Nokshi Kantha’ displayed in the exposition.
A BKMEA (Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association) delegation that attended the fair received encouraging response from buyers, who were particularly attracted by the design and quality of our products. It has also been reported that some visitors showed keen interest to invest in the garments and textile sectors in Bangladesh. It may be mentioned that the country's ready-made garments (RMG) exports to non-traditional markets, including Japan, scaled up significantly in the just concluded fiscal (2012-13).
The fair is Japan’s largest fashion business trade show, held from July 17 to 19 at the Tokyo Big Sight. This time, exporters from different countries participated in the fair and displayed their products in 15 stalls – 10 for apparels, 3 for leather and leather goods and 2 for handicrafts. There were embroidered clothes, fabrics, dresses, accessories, leather goods and handicrafts.
We believe Bangladeshi manufacturers and traders of non-traditional products will do their utmost to create a lasting impression on the buyers in Japan and thereby keep increasing their export target every year. As the demand for good quality and yet inexpensive merchandise will increase, so will the export volume. However, it needs to be emphasized that in order to get a good grip on the market, quality of merchandise and timely shipment will have to be ensured to keep the importers and buyers happy. There should not be any compromise with these two elements.