Knitwear – Comfort, Quality & Versatility
Bangladesh has become one of the world’s leading hubs for knitwear production, supplying to top international brands across Europe, the US, and beyond. In recent years, the industry has placed strong emphasis on sustainability, ensuring that production is not only cost-effective and efficient but also environmentally responsible. With growing global demand for eco-friendly fashion, Bangladesh is transforming its knitwear sector through innovation, certifications, and sustainable practices — making it a reliable destination for buyers seeking quality with responsibility.
Industry Context & Growth
Bangladesh is the second-largest exporter of knitwear worldwide, supported by a robust textile base, skilled workforce, and cost competitiveness. Knit products such as T-shirts, polos, sweatshirts, and activewear dominate global exports. With increasing focus on sustainability, many factories have invested in green buildings, renewable energy, and ethical production systems.
Sustainability Initiatives and Certifications
Green Buildings: Factories like Plummy Fashions and DBL Group operate LEED-certified facilities, reducing carbon footprint through energy efficiency, rainwater harvesting, and natural recycling systems.
Certifications: Hundreds of Bangladeshi factories are certified under GOTS, OEKO-TEX, and Fair Trade.
Industry Support: BKMEA has dedicated a sustainability cell to guide factories towards greener production.
Eco-Friendly Production Practices
✔ Use of organic cotton, BCI cotton, linen, and recycled polyester.
✔ Low-impact dyeing and water-efficient finishing methods.
✔ Focus on circularity through recycling of textile waste and reusing materials.
✔ Reduced energy consumption with renewable power adoption (solar and biomass).
Stakeholder & Policy Support
Partnerships like BKMEA & Swisscontact focus on resilience, inclusivity, and green growth.
Global events such as the Sustainable Apparel Forum in Dhaka provide collaboration platforms.
Bangladesh is no longer seen just as a low-cost producer but as a responsible sourcing destination.
Key Strengths of Bangladesh in Sustainable Knitwear
✔ Strong backward linkage with spinning, dyeing, and finishing industries.
✔ Highest number of LEED-certified green factories worldwide.
✔ Skilled labor force experienced in knitwear & sustainability.
✔ Government and trade body support for eco-friendly practices.
✔ Competitive costing alongside sustainable production.
The future of Bangladesh’s knitwear industry lies in sustainability. By combining eco-friendly materials, efficient production methods, and transparent supply chains, Bangladesh has positioned itself as a trusted global hub for sustainable knitwear. For buyers seeking quality, affordability, and responsibility, Bangladesh offers the perfect balance. With continued investment in green factories, certifications, and recycling, the country is not just making garments — it is shaping the future of conscious fashion.
