Bangladesh Denim Expo took placed from 6-7 May 2024 in Dhaka and included more than 60 exhibitors from 11 countries.

Organised by the Bangladesh Apparel Exchange, the event showcased the latest denim products, fabrics, accessories, chemicals and new technologies.

Bangladesh’s minister for textiles and jute Jahangir Kabir Nanak said in a statement: “As a safe and compliant sourcing hub, I request buyers to choose Bangladesh and pay a fair price. The apparel industry is a crucial force for Bangladesh's progress economically.

"I am confident that with the influence of the RMG [readymade garment] industry, Bangladesh will significantly progress into a developed country very soon."

The two-day event featured four panel discussions, two trend seminars and a closing ceremony. The sessions welcomed international panellists to share their insights on denim.

Speakers and special guests included BMGEA's new president S.M. Mannan (Kochi), former BGMEA president Siddiqur Rahman, H&M's regional head for Bangladesh, Pakistan and Ethiopia Ziaur Rahman, and ambassador for the Netherlands Irma van Dueren.

Ambassader van Dueren added that Bangladesh has recently made "impressive progress" in its economic development. She said: "The RMG sector has been crucial to this progress. In the coming years, our focus on the sector will be more and more on sustainability and circular practices everywhere.”

“We are now incorporating automation and becoming ready to acquire greater market share globally. We are making constant efforts in business sustainability, and we are optimistic that we can add even greater value in the coming years," added BGMEA’s Mannan (Kochi).

H&M's Rahman added that sustainability and circularity were key to unlocking success in Bangladesh. He said: “Circularity is one of the areas where we really need to work. It's an untapped opportunity. Transparency is your next biggest best friend. If we want to lead this industry we need to focus on efficiency improvement, waste management, innovation and sustainability.”

In 2023, H&M announced that it would be increasing prices paid to garment manufacturers in-line with the minimum wage rise in Bangladesh.