STAFF CORRESPONDENT, Ctg

The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has urged the government to allocate 2-3 acres of land in different parts of Chattogram to establish compliance-based “garment villages” for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the apparel sector.

The apex trade body made the call at a meeting with the Chattogram district administration at the deputy commissioner’s office in the port city yesterday, according to a press release.

BGMEA leaders said SME factories in the region are struggling to meet compliance requirements—particularly in fire safety, environmental protection, and worker welfare—due to financial and infrastructural constraints.

They added that a planned industrial cluster would allow shared access to modern facilities, helping factories reduce costs, ensure compliance, and remain competitive in the global market, while also supporting export growth.

The association also noted that the number of garment factories in Chattogram has declined from around 700 to about 300, calling it a worrying trend for the country’s key commercial hub.

Mohammad Zahedul Islam Mia, deputy commissioner and district magistrate of Chattogram, assured that the proposal would be given priority and that necessary steps would be taken in coordination with relevant ministries to assess feasibility and expedite implementation.

Selim Rahman, first vice-president of BGMEA; Mohammad Rafiq Chowdhury, vice-president; Md M Mohiuddin Chowdhury; Saif Ullah Mansur; and Enamul Aziz Chowdhury, directors, along with officials from the relevant departments, were also present.