The election-centric coalition ‘Oikko Parishad’ of the organization of export-oriented garment industry owners, BGMEA, held an open discussion on the challenges and actions for the future of the garment industry recently.
More than 250 small and medium-sized entrepreneurs who are members of BGMEA participated in the event held at Uttara Club in Dhaka. In this uniquely organized event, general members gave speeches and expressed their opinions. The organization arranged this meeting in view of the upcoming BGMEA elections. Entrepreneurs discussed issues such as resolving HS code duplicity, increasing understanding with government institutions, business facilitation, exit policy, and rational pricing of products. Mohsin Alam, Chief Coordinator of the Oikko Parishad, presided over the meeting.
He said, “BGMEA must work in the interest of its members.” BGMEA general members expressed their opinions, saying, “Governments will come and go, but why should it affect BGMEA? One of our main goals and objectives is to run BGMEA with non-political, experienced, and successful individuals. The Oikko Parishad will stand by you in any problem or need.”
“Today we can see the formal launching of the Oikko Parishad. I don’t think BGMEA has ever been in such a bad state that it has to run by renting out the BGMEA building, but that is happening now. There has been an anti-discrimination movement across the country, but it still exists in BGMEA, and we see it at every step.”
“Bond automation should be related to our banks and Bangladesh Bank so that access is easily obtained. Just as large industries are receiving incentives, small factories should also be given so that they get equal rights.”
“We must also focus on VAT and tax. Large factories should definitely help small factories, which will create new entrepreneurs. There is considerable doubt about general members receiving treatment at the BGMEA hospital, and the Oikko Parishad will work on that.”
BGMEA member Kafiluddin said, “There are many problems in our industry, such as customs, bonds, electricity, and banks. The Oikko Parishad has been formed solely to secure the rights of general members. Whoever is elected from the Forum, Sammilita, or Oikko Parishad will definitely come through transparent elections.”
Abul Kalam, MD of Chaity Group, said, “I am committed that if you bring a better leader than us, I will step down from my position. I am also a general member like you, and I have problems just like you. BGMEA is our business organization, not our business place. If you conduct elections democratically, I will definitely be with you and remain so.”
