The Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA) has called for the formulation of data-driven policies to ensure the protection, fair competition, and export competitiveness of the primary textile sector, particularly the spinning industry.
This information was shared in a press release signed by BTMA Secretary General Zakir Hossain on Sunday (October 18).
The release clarified that no new tariffs or import bans have been imposed through the withdrawal of bonded warehouse facilities on the import of 10–30 count cotton yarn.
The requirement of bank guarantees for such imports is primarily intended to protect state revenue and prevent the misuse of trade privileges.
Highlighting the sector's $22 billion investment in spinning mills, the BTMA stated that reopening closed mills and generating new employment opportunities in this industry can play a positive role in recovering bank loans and boosting the national economy.
It added that ensuring imported yarn is used strictly for authorized purposes can be accomplished through bank guarantees, digital surveillance, and risk-based audits.
Consequently, this will reduce the risk of unauthorized leakage of duty-free goods into the local market.
Regarding concerns over the shifting of buyer orders, the association emphasized that international buyers do not make order decisions based on yarn prices alone.
Factors such as quality, technology, productivity, and the ability to ensure timely delivery are equally critical.
To address the situation, the BTMA requested the continuation of the bank guarantee-based import system for 10–30 English count yarn.
Additionally, it proposed enforcing a condition requiring 30% local value addition on raw material imports for non-bonded industries.
