MMF apparel exports to be increased

The fashion and style of outfits change constantly. The trend for apparel made from man-made fiber (MMF), was already popular before the pandemic. It seems that the economic constraints of the post-pandemic world of economic contractions in the countries importing the garments have given the trend a boost. The MMF, or synthetic fiber, is cheaper, more durable and better-looking than traditional fibres. Bangladesh has only a small share of this global market, which currently stands at US$700 billion. It is imperative that Bangladesh’s top export earner, the apparel industry, is reviewed. It may be surprising that Bangladesh chooses to produce apparel from MMF or artificial fiber, especially given the growing global campaign against plastic. However, diversifying Bangladesh’s apparel market along this line will bring the country more benefits. The country has negligible cotton production capacity. Second, it will reduce plastic waste and scraps, as well as industrial rejects from other artificial materials, which are used to make MMF.

The second-highest garment exporter is expected to shift its efforts towards increasing its MMF apparel export, which currently stands at $10 billion. Faruque Hassan (BGMEA) was on a trip to India with the objective of exploring outsourcing MMF. There are 50 mills in Bangladesh that produce MMF such as polyester, viscose and staple fibre. These mills are reported to be short on raw materials due to the country’s disposal problems with polythene, plastic waste and other chemicals. According to some reports, traders are known for exporting textile waste. However local MMF factories lack raw material. This is why it’s important to stop the export of textile waste and strengthen collection capabilities under well-coordinated systems.

The news is that the investment in primary textiles, which was showing signs of being more resilient as part of the garment industry’s backward-linkage sector, has suddenly fallen. If apparel exports are experiencing a slow market globally, this is normal. Foreign importers demand discounts and cancelling export orders. The best solution in such uncertain times is to maximize the production capacity of MMF apparel, and then export it to both traditional and non-traditional markets. Faculties should take advantage of this opportunity to stay in the garment industry.

This is because of limited factory capacities and the availability of different types of artificial fiber, but it cannot be accomplished overnight. This is where the decision must be made about whether to outsource or develop local capabilities for MMF production. Either one of the two options is best for business, depending on whether local or offshore production costs are involved. Local production may prove to be more profitable than local, but it takes time. Collaborative ventures might prove to be more lucrative until the country has a strong production base that can supply the needs of its garment factories. Import of MMF to boost production and collaboration may prove beneficial for both countries, with India’s garment exports increasing at 49 percent in the second half of this fiscal year.