Women have made significant contributions to the socio-economic transformation of Bangladesh that took place over the last 50 years since independence in 1971.

Rumana Rashid, Director of Pantaloon Fashion Ltd. She is the daughter of the late Harun-Ar-Rashid, a Renowned industrialist and founder of East-West Industrial Park and BGMEA Vice president.

Rumana Rashid was the Co-Chairman Standing Committee on Women Affairs in 2001. Recently Rumana Rashid conversed with Textile Focus and shared some insight into the RMG sector.

Read the full conversation –

Textile Focus: How are you observing the current situation of the Bangladesh RMG sector?

Rumana Rashid: The Bangladesh RMG sector is currently navigating a complex landscape. While order volumes are increasing, manufacturers face significant challenges due to rising production costs, including raw materials, energy, and labor expenses. Additionally, global economic uncertainties and changing consumer demands are impacting profit margins.

However, Bangladesh remains competitive due to its large, skilled workforce and established infrastructure.

Textile Focus: RMG order increases besides production cost rising, as manufacturers how do you balance it?

Rumana Rashid: As a manufacturer to balance rising production costs with increasing orders, we are focusing on enhancing operational efficiency and productivity. Optimizing supply chain management and cost control measures, such as energy efficiency initiatives are actively pursued to reduce the impact of rising expenses.

Textile Focus: What challenges are you facing, especially the Banking issue?

Rumana Rashid: One of the major challenges is the ongoing banking crisis, which includes issues like high interest rates.

Textile Focus: If the order flow is growing, what is your future plan for diversifying your business?

Rumana Rashid: We plan to keep our business stable. Maybe later we can think of businesses for raw materials.