Bangladesh’s political turmoil may lead to decline in clothing orders

Bangladesh’s “Business Standard” reported on July 21 that the recent political turmoil and surge in violence in Bangladesh have caused concerns among international clothing buyers. Mohammad Hatem, executive chairman of Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), said political stability has an important impact on the economy and exports. He mentioned that every election year, apparel exporters experience a crisis of slowdown in orders. At present, the capacity utilization rate of most factories is only 50-60%. If orders continue to decrease, it will cause a major blow to the Bangladesh economy.