Make Trade & Investment Bangladesh Your Trusted Sourcing Agent in Bangladesh

Md. Joynal Abdin

Founder & CEO, Trade & Investment Bangladesh (T&IB)

Executive Director, Online Training Academy (OTA)

Secretary General, Brazil Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BBCCI)

 

Bangladesh has rapidly emerged as one of the world’s most attractive sourcing hubs, driven by its competitive manufacturing costs, skilled workforce, and robust export‑oriented industries. According to the World Bank, Bangladesh’s economy grew at an average rate of 6–7% annually over the past decade, with exports playing a central role. The country is now the 2nd largest apparel exporter globally, accounting for over 6.4% of the global market share, and its diversified manufacturing sectors ranging from textiles, leather goods, jute products, handicrafts, to light engineering are gaining increasing attention from international buyers.

 

In this dynamic environment, Trade & Investment Bangladesh (T&IB) stands as a strategic partner for global companies seeking to source high‑quality products from Bangladesh with confidence and efficiency. Headquartered in Dhaka, T&IB is a forward‑thinking business consultancy and sourcing facilitator, committed to “Connecting Business Opportunities” by bridging the gap between local manufacturers and international buyers. With more than 17 years of leadership experience in trade facilitation, export support, and international business development, T&IB offers unmatched expertise in supplier selection, price negotiation, quality assurance, and seamless logistics coordination.

 

While Bangladesh presents abundant opportunities, navigating its sourcing landscape requires local expertise, strong supplier networks, and rigorous quality control mechanisms. This is where having a reliable sourcing agent becomes essential. Without on‑the‑ground representation, international buyers risk facing challenges such as supplier misrepresentation, inconsistent product quality, and shipment delays. T&IB eliminates these risks by acting as your trusted sourcing partner in Bangladesh, ensuring that every transaction meets your expectations in terms of quality, compliance, and timely delivery.

 

2. Why Bangladesh for Sourcing?

2.1 Competitive Manufacturing Costs

Bangladesh remains one of the most cost-effective destinations globally. The minimum wage for garment workers hovers around $114 per month (~12,500 BDT) among the lowest in Asia Labor typically represents just 15–25% of total manufacturing costs, while raw materials account for 40–60% depending on sector. Vertical integration is key: Bangladeshi mills supply ~70% of knitwear fabric and ~40% of woven fabric, cutting reliance on imports and reducing costs.

As confirmed by the US International Trade Commission, Bangladesh continues to offer large-batch volumes at “China‑competitive prices”, especially for basic apparel orders.

 

2.2 Abundant Skilled Labor Force

Bangladesh supports a vast labor pool approximately 67 million people in its workforce (2017 data). Although literacy and education metrics remain moderate, the workforce is phenomenally efficient for apparel production, due primarily to experiential training and scale operations.

Garment production alone employs nearly 4 million workers, most of them women, across approximately 3,500 factories. This extensive labor base enables Bangladesh to meet large-scale orders efficiently.

 

2.3 Established Leading Sectors: Textile, Apparel, Leather, Jute and More

The ready-made garments (RMG) sector dominates the national export economy, accounting for more than 75–80% of total merchandise exports. Beyond apparel, Bangladesh offers a diverse production base: jute (value-added products), leather goods, handicrafts, pharmaceuticals, agro-products, and light engineering items are increasingly recognized in export markets.
Integration with local textile mills secures competitive pricing and resilience to global disruptions, while the sector’s ability to shift into higher-value items is expanding export potential.

 

2.4 Government Incentives & Export‑Friendly Policies

Bangladesh offers a suite of export incentives and business-friendly policies:

• Access to duty‑free or reduced tariff markets in over 38 countries, including the EU (via the Everything‑But‑Arms initiative), UK, Canada, Australia, India, China, and African nations.
• Incentives include cash subsidies (4–20%) for non‑RMG sectors such as leather, jute products, IT, pharmaceuticals, and processed agro‑goods.
• Exporters benefit from the Export Development Fund (EDF) low‑interest foreign currency loans—and duty‑free bonded warehouse access for raw materials and machinery import.
• Bangladesh has established multiple economic and export processing zones (e.g. Dhaka EPZ, Chittagong EPZ) offering tax holidays (up to 10 years), simplified licensing, and infrastructure support. One EPZ alone (Chittagong) has generated US $40.5 billion in exports to date.

 

These policy levers foster a favorable sourcing environment, streamline compliance, reduce cost burdens, and enable buyers to optimize supply chain sourcing securely.

 

3. Why Choose T&IB as Your Sourcing Agent?

3.1 Trusted Industry Experience

With more than 17 years of professional experience in trade facilitation, export support, and business consultancy, Trade & Investment Bangladesh (T&IB) has earned a solid reputation for delivering reliable sourcing solutions. Led by Md. Joynal Abdin, a seasoned trade professional with leadership roles in the FBCCI, SME Foundation, Dhaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI), and the Brazil Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BBCCI), T&IB combines strategic insight with hands‑on expertise to ensure buyers receive top‑tier service.

 

3.2 Strong Local and International Business Networks

T&IB maintains an extensive network of trusted suppliers, manufacturers, and exporters across Bangladesh’s key industries textiles, leather goods, jute products, handicrafts, light engineering, and more. On the international front, T&IB has built strategic connections with buyers, trade bodies, chambers of commerce, and investors in markets such as Europe, North & South America, the Middle East, and Asia. These networks allow us to source competitive, compliant, and innovative products that meet diverse buyer requirements.

 

3.3 Comprehensive Understanding of Bangladesh’s Manufacturing Landscape

Bangladesh’s sourcing ecosystem is vast and dynamic. T&IB has in‑depth knowledge of industry clusters, from textile hubs in Gazipur and Narayanganj to leather processing in Savar, jute mills in Khulna, and light engineering in Dhaka and Chittagong. We understand production capabilities, seasonal cycles, compliance requirements, and price benchmarks, enabling us to guide buyers to the right suppliers at the right time while avoiding common sourcing pitfalls.

 

3.4 Proven Track Record with Global Buyers

Over the years, T&IB has successfully represented international buyers as their trusted sourcing agent in Bangladesh—helping them identify suppliers, negotiate competitive prices, manage quality control, and ensure timely delivery. Our portfolio includes SMEs and large enterprises from Europe, the Americas, and Asia that have relied on us to deliver high‑quality, ethically sourced products while minimizing operational risks. This proven track record demonstrates our commitment to building long‑term, win‑win partnerships with every client.

 

4. Our Sourcing Services

At Trade & Investment Bangladesh (T&IB), we offer end‑to‑end sourcing solutions designed to make your procurement from Bangladesh seamless, cost‑effective, and risk‑free. Our services cover every stage of the sourcing process from identifying the right product to ensuring it reaches your destination on time and in perfect condition.

 

4.1. Product Identification & Supplier Selection

We start by understanding your exact product requirements, target market, and quality standards. Leveraging our extensive supplier network across Bangladesh’s manufacturing clusters, we identify reliable, compliant, and competitive manufacturers for your needs. Every supplier undergoes rigorous vetting to ensure they meet international production standards and ethical compliance requirements.

 

4.2. Price Negotiation & Cost Optimization

Our deep knowledge of the local cost structure and market pricing trends allows us to negotiate the best possible terms on your behalf. We focus not just on getting a competitive price but on ensuring value for money balancing quality, lead time, and production reliability to optimize your total sourcing cost.

 

4.3. Quality Assurance & Inspection

Quality is non‑negotiable in global sourcing. We conduct pre‑production assessments, in‑line inspections, and final random inspections to make sure your products match agreed specifications. Our team monitors compliance with AQL (Acceptable Quality Limit) standards, ensures proper labeling/packaging, and verifies production timelines so you can have full confidence in every shipment.

 

4.4. Logistics, Shipping & Documentation Support

International trade involves complex logistics and documentation. We coordinate freight forwarding, customs clearance, and export documentation to make sure your shipment moves smoothly. Whether by sea, air, or courier, we work with trusted logistics partners to deliver your products on time and cost‑effectively to your desired port or warehouse.

 

4.5. After‑Sales Service & Long‑Term Partnership Management

Our relationship with you doesn’t end when the shipment leaves Bangladesh. We provide ongoing after‑sales support, helping you address any post‑delivery concerns and plan for your next sourcing cycle. Our goal is to be your long‑term sourcing partner, continuously improving product quality, reducing costs, and strengthening your supply chain over time.

 

5. Quality Control and Compliance

At Trade & Investment Bangladesh (T&IB), we understand that quality, ethics, and compliance are the cornerstones of sustainable global sourcing. We have developed a rigorous control framework to ensure that every product we source meets international standards while reflecting responsible business practices.

 

5.1. Strict Supplier Vetting Process

We begin every sourcing engagement by conducting a thorough supplier evaluation. This includes verifying business licenses, production capabilities, financial stability, and past export performance. We also assess the supplier’s factory facilities, workforce capacity, and technology adoption to ensure they can consistently deliver to your specifications. Only pre‑qualified, trustworthy manufacturers make it into our sourcing network.

 

5.2. Adherence to International Quality Standards

From raw materials to finished goods, our team ensures compliance with globally recognized quality benchmarks such as ISO, OEKO‑TEX®, AATCC, ASTM, and BSCI (where applicable). We use AQL (Acceptable Quality Limit) guidelines for all inspections, including:

• Pre‑production inspections to check materials and production readiness.
• In‑line inspections to monitor quality during manufacturing.
• Pre‑shipment inspections to verify product quality, packaging, and labeling before delivery.

 

5.3. Ethical Sourcing and Sustainable Practices

We are committed to responsible sourcing that benefits both businesses and communities. This means prioritizing:

• Factories with fair labor practices.
• Environmentally responsible operations that reduce waste and pollution.
• Encouraging suppliers to adopt energy‑efficient processes and sustainable raw materials wherever possible.

By integrating sustainability into our sourcing model, we help our clients meet the growing global demand for ethical and eco‑friendly products.

 

5.4. Social Compliance Audits

Beyond product quality, we focus on human rights and workplace safety. We conduct social compliance audits based on standards such as SA8000, WRAP, and Sedex/SMETA to ensure that workers are treated fairly, work in safe environments, and are not subject to discrimination or exploitation. These audits protect both your brand’s reputation and your customers’ trust.

6. Our Network of Trusted Suppliers

Over years of industry engagement, Trade & Investment Bangladesh (T&IB) has built a robust network of pre‑qualified suppliers and manufacturers across Bangladesh’s most competitive export sectors. Each supplier in our network is carefully vetted for quality, compliance, production capacity, and ethical standards to ensure buyers receive world‑class products with confidence.

 

6.1. Textile & Garments

Bangladesh is the world’s second‑largest apparel exporter, producing everything from basic knitwear and woven garments to fashion‑forward, high‑value apparel. Our textile partners include spinning, weaving, knitting, dyeing, printing, and finishing units, ensuring vertical integration for competitive pricing and faster lead times. We source:

• Knitwear: T‑shirts, polo shirts, sweaters, hoodies.
• Woven: Shirts, trousers, jackets, denim, uniforms.
• Technical and performance fabrics.

 

6.2. Leather Goods & Footwear

Our leather suppliers operate from modern tanneries in Savar Leather Industrial Park and other hubs, producing export‑grade leather and finished goods. We connect buyers with factories producing:

• Leather bags, wallets, belts.
• Formal shoes, casual footwear, sandals.
• Industrial safety shoes and boots.

 

6.3. Handicrafts & Jute Products

Bangladesh is a leading exporter of eco‑friendly jute products and traditional crafts. Our network includes artisanal workshops and industrial producers delivering:

• Jute bags, rugs, mats, ropes.
• Home décor and gift items.
• Bamboo, cane, and wooden handicrafts.

 

6.4. Engineering & Light Manufacturing

We work with specialized manufacturers producing light engineering goods for both domestic and international markets, including:

• Sheet metal and fabricated components.
• Electrical fittings, machinery parts.
• Bicycles and agricultural tools.

 

6.5. Other Niche Products on Request

T&IB is also equipped to source niche, customized, or innovative products beyond mainstream categories. Whether it’s eco‑friendly packaging, promotional merchandise, specialty textiles, or customized components, we match your needs with capable, compliant producers in Bangladesh.

 

7. How to Start Working with T&IB

Partnering with Trade & Investment Bangladesh (T&IB) is straightforward, transparent, and designed to get your sourcing project moving quickly. We make the process simple, efficient, and flexible so you can focus on your business while we handle the complexities of sourcing from Bangladesh.

 

7.1. Simple Onboarding Process

We begin with a free initial consultation to understand your product requirements, target market, and sourcing goals. Once we have a clear understanding of your needs, we:

1. Assess requirements: Identify specifications, volumes, quality standards, and timelines.
2. Match with suppliers: Shortlist vetted manufacturers that fit your needs.
3. Formalize engagement: Agree on terms, service scope, and fees before commencing work.

 

7.2. Communication and Project Management Approach

Clear communication is the backbone of successful sourcing. At T&IB, we:

• Assign a dedicated sourcing manager as your single point of contact.
• Provide regular progress updates on supplier negotiations, production status, and inspections.
• Use modern communication tools (email, WhatsApp, video calls) for real-time collaboration.
• Maintain a shared tracking document for timelines, milestones, and deliverables.

 

This ensures you have full visibility and control at every stage of the sourcing process.

 

7.3. Flexible Partnership Models

We understand that sourcing needs vary from project to project. That’s why we offer flexible engagement models:

• Project-Based: Ideal for one-time or seasonal sourcing needs.
• Retainer-Based: For ongoing sourcing support, quality monitoring, and supplier management.
• Hybrid Model: Combining project and ongoing support for scaling businesses.

 

This flexibility allows us to tailor our partnership to your budget, project scope, and long-term sourcing strategy.

8. Conclusion

Bangladesh is one of the world’s most promising sourcing destinations—offering competitive costs, a skilled workforce, diversified manufacturing sectors, and strong government export support. But to navigate this market successfully, you need a partner who understands its dynamics, knows the right suppliers, and can guarantee quality, compliance, and timely delivery.

Trade & Investment Bangladesh (T&IB) is that partner. With over 17 years of industry experience, a strong network of vetted suppliers, and a proven track record with global buyers, we provide end‑to‑end sourcing solutions that make importing from Bangladesh safe, simple, and profitable. Whether you need garments, leather goods, jute products, engineering items, or niche products, we ensure your sourcing journey is efficient and risk‑free.

 

Now is the time to tap into the opportunities Bangladesh offers. Let us be your trusted sourcing agent and help you build a competitive edge in your market.

 

📞 Contact Us for a Free Consultation: Trade & Investment Bangladesh (T&IB)
House‑486, Adorsho School Road, North Dhania, Dhaka‑1236, Bangladesh
📧 Email: info@tradeandinvestmentbangladesh.com
📱 WhatsApp / Mobile: +880 1553676767
🌐 Website: https://tradeandinvestmentbangladesh.com