Sammilito Parishad, a panel of apparel manufacturers contesting the forthcoming BGMEA election, has pledged to lead the trade body with transparency, accountability and unwavering independence in addressing the challenges facing Bangladesh’s ready-made garment (RMG) sector amid a volatile global trade environment.

Leaders of the panel criticised previous BGMEA leadership for engaging in flattery and political subservience, pledging to usher in a new era of principled and independent governance if elected.

The BGMEA election for the 2025–27 term is scheduled for May 31.

During the previous government’s tenure, some leaders engaged in shameless flattery, Quazi Moniruzzaman, president of the panel, said in response to a question, adding that they want to conduct business with transparency, accountability, and self-respect.

‘We won’t support any flattery and will take necessary measures against it,’ said the former president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) while addressing a press conference held on May 15 at a city hotel.

Speaking at the event, Sammilito Parishad panel leader Md Abul Kalam said the trade body’s election is set to take place at a time when global trade is facing significant challenges, particularly in the wake of the new US tariff regime.

He said that the proposed regime has posed risks for Bangladesh’s RMG industry in the US market. In addition, a number of domestic issues — including the energy crisis and pricing, complexities in customs and bond processes, challenges in the banking sector, and the implications of LDC graduation — are also weighing on the industry.

Md Abul Kalam, who is also the Managing Director of Chaity Group, said they have formed a strong panel comprising experienced, educated and professional second-generation entrepreneurs to secure industry-friendly policy support from the government and boost export growth.

Faruque Hassan, former BGMEA president and chief election coordinator of Sammilito Parishad, said they would unveil their election manifesto on 21 May, detailing their vision for the future of the apparel sector.

He stated that, if elected, they would focus on key issues concerning the development of the RMG sector, including trade facilitation, upskilling mid-level managers, establishing a digital transformation centre, implementing a unified code of conduct, advancing revenue sector reforms, promoting apparel diplomacy, and preparing for LDC graduation.

In response to a question, Faruque said the ongoing pen-down strike by field-level officials of the income tax, VAT, and customs departments is adversely affecting business activities.

However, he expressed hope that if the two newly created entities — the Revenue Policy Division and the Revenue Management Division — are implemented effectively following the dissolution of the NBR, they will function efficiently.

Two panels — Sammilito Parishad and Forum — are contesting with 35 candidates each, while Oikkyo Parishad is fielding six candidates for the 35 posts on the board of directors.