It is disappointing to learn that the United States has urged Bangladesh to take action to address the export of counterfeit clothing items -- a mark for our RMG sector which continues to bring in the lion’s share of export revenue for our nation.
The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has identified Bangladesh as one of the top five sources for counterfeit clothing items globally, and this is not the sort of reputation we wish to build, especially as we continue to try to receive fairer prices for our products from buyers.
Indeed, the issue of receiving our fair share of prices must not lose momentum, and there is no questioning that, ever since the Rana Plaza tragedy a decade ago, Bangladesh’s RMG industry has made noteworthy improvements in overall operations. While we appreciate the US bringing to light the need for labour reforms, it is equally important for foreign buyers to recognize the good that has happened in this industry, with prices reflecting the reforms.
With RMG remaining as important to our economy as ever, and projected to remain a cornerstone for the economy as we step into a new era post LDC graduation, it goes without saying that we cannot let issues such as counterfeit products drag us down.
To that end, the relevant authorities and stakeholders must do their part in investigating these claims and swiftly put a stop to these operations. This is true not just for the RMG sector, but any export-oriented sector where forgery and counterfeit products look to be tarnishing the image of the nation.
We will continue to progress as a nation, and we wish to do so with authenticity at the heart of it all.