Bangladesh Ministry of Commerce Eases Import Rules for Specialized Apparel Inputs

The Ministry of Commerce introduced amendments to the Import Policy Order 2026-2029 via a notification on September 22, 2026, which took immediate effect. The changes ease import rules for specialized fabrics and materials used to produce niche products, such as seamless sportswear, underwear, and functional garments. These manufacturers can now import these inputs more easily, often upon recommendation from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) or the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA). The amendments remove some procedural requirements that previously required importers to obtain approval from the Ministry of Commerce for certain materials.

The policy shift is intended to correct inconsistencies and unnecessary restrictions within the Import Policy Order 2026-2029. This move is expected to ease the sourcing of inputs for manufacturers producing specialized apparel in Bangladesh.