In a move aimed at revolutionizing transparency and sustainability within the garment industry, the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has initiated a blockchain-based Digital Product Passport (DPP) pilot project. The initiative is designed to enhance supply chain accountability and position Bangladesh’s garment sector more competitively on the global stage, particularly in light of evolving international regulations.
The pilot project was formally launched with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the BGMEA Complex in Uttara, Dhaka. This agreement brought together key partners from three organizations. BGMEA was represented by its Administrator Anwar Hossain, while Salauddin Sohag, Managing Director of DigiProd Pass Limited, and Dr. Fahim Chowdhury, CEO of Digital Architect, signed on behalf of their respective companies. This collaboration marks a significant step in the digital transformation of one of Bangladesh’s most vital industries.
Enhancing Traceability and Lifecycle Data
The core objective of the project is to establish a blockchain-enabled platform that facilitates robust data collection and integration across the garment supply chain. This system is expected to introduce digital passports that accompany garments through each phase of production, offering verified information on product lifecycle, sustainability performance, and environmental impact.
Technical development of the platform will be spearheaded by DigiProd Pass Limited, while Digital Architect is set to support the initiative through services such as lifecycle assessments, stakeholder training, system development, and local data integration. These efforts are aimed at equipping industry players with the tools necessary to comply with increasingly stringent international standards, particularly those emerging from the European Union.
With the pilot expected to run for a period of 24 months, selected garment manufacturers will take part in testing the system’s feasibility for broader industry adoption. The outcomes will help determine how effectively the DPP can be scaled to meet national and international requirements.
Strategic Response to Global Market Demands
The introduction of the Digital Product Passport comes at a crucial time for Bangladesh’s garment industry. Given that approximately 60% of the country’s garment exports are destined for European Union markets, meeting EU regulatory standards is becoming increasingly essential. The blockchain-backed DPP is expected to provide buyers with real-time, authenticated data on garments’ origin and sustainability credentials, which can influence procurement decisions.
Industry stakeholders believe that the adoption of this technology could significantly enhance Bangladesh’s appeal to global buyers who are prioritizing ethical sourcing and transparent supply chains. The DPP platform is designed not just as a compliance tool but as a mechanism to strengthen the country’s position in a competitive global apparel market.
Toward a More Transparent Future
Key goals of the pilot include assessing both the technical functionality and operational viability of the DPP system. Additionally, it seeks to build industry-wide awareness around transparency, environmental responsibility, and digital accountability. Training programs will be introduced to equip stakeholders with the necessary knowledge to adopt and benefit from the new system.
Through this initiative, BGMEA has demonstrated a proactive approach in aligning with global best practices. The project reflects the industry’s readiness to adapt to the increasing demands of international trade, particularly where sustainability and transparency are concerned.
As Bangladesh moves forward with this pilot, the garment sector is poised for a potential transformation—one that could redefine its global reputation and set a benchmark for other manufacturing economies to follow.