The agreement was signed by Bangladesh Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir and Dutch Minister of Climate and Green Growth Stientje van Veldhoven-van der Meer on 17 August.
The MoU sets out a framework for collaborative efforts on resource efficiency, waste reduction, recyclable production systems, and adopting industrial processes with lower environmental impact in the textile value chain.
Following the signing, Muktadir stated it was now essential for the global textile industry to adopt circular and sustainable production models, particularly as Bangladesh’s garment supply chains are tightly integrated with those of international markets.
“This memorandum of understanding is an important milestone in advancing our partnership towards a greener, more resilient and future-oriented economy,” he said.
According to the Minister, the circular economy is closely connected not only to environmental protection but also to enhancing the long-term competitiveness of Bangladesh’s export sector.
He noted that it supports maximum resource efficiency, attracts sustainable investment, creates green jobs, and helps the industry respond to new requirements in international markets.
Dutch minister van Veldhoven-van der Meer described the expansion of the circular economy as highly significant, noting that achieving such a transition requires joint international efforts.
“No country can complete this transition alone. International cooperation, commercial partnerships and coordinated initiatives are needed throughout the entire supply chain,” she said.
She also stated that officials from both nations have already discussed priority areas and that prompt action was necessary to translate discussions into concrete outcomes.
The Dutch minister further voiced interest in pursuing cooperation with Bangladesh not only at the bilateral level but also through international platforms, expressing optimism for a more effective and results-oriented collaboration.
Bangladesh’s commerce ministry also expected the MoU to create new opportunities for Bangladesh’s textile and garment industries by promoting green technologies, fostering innovation, and enhancing international competitiveness through sustainable production models.
