The fourth High-Level Policy Dialogue under Sweden’s Sustainable Fashion Platform took place on May 12, focusing on advancing Sweden-Bangladesh collaboration on sustainable water management in the ready-made garment (RMG) sector.

The dialogue was hosted by the Swedish Embassy in Bangladesh and attended by the Advisor to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Water Resources as chief guest.

The event brought together stakeholders from government, international organizations, and private sector actors to discuss strategies for scaling up sustainable practices in the RMG industry.

Sweden emphasized its long-standing commitment to sustainability as a central component of its global development and commercial partnerships.

In Bangladesh, this commitment is reflected in the operations of major Swedish brands such as H&M Group, IKEA, and Lindex, which maintain significant sourcing ties with the country’s garment sector.

Participants underscored that investment in sustainable water management strengthens Bangladesh’s position as a reliable and competitive sourcing destination.

Improved water use practices reduce operational risks, enhance climate resilience, and align with Sustainable Development Goal 6 and emerging EU due diligence requirements.

The Swedish delegation noted that technology transfer, ongoing policy dialogue, and multi-stakeholder collaboration remain central to achieving environmental sustainability while supporting industrial growth.

Speaking on behalf of Team Sweden, the Swedish ambassador said the partnership can enhance Bangladesh’s RMG competitiveness amid shifting consumer demands.

“Adopting a green business model among suppliers will be essential to remain competitive,” he said.

The advisor from Bangladesh's environment and water ministries stressed the need for regulatory reforms to manage groundwater allocation sustainably.

“The RMG sector must clearly articulate the policy support it needs from relevant ministries. A dedicated working group on water use in industrial zones should be established without delay,” the advisor stated.

A representative from UNICEF emphasized the importance of balancing equity, sustainability, and governance in water resource management.

“Today’s actions are crucial to ensuring clean water access for future generations,” the UNICEF representative said.

The dialogue forms part of broader efforts to integrate sustainability into Bangladesh’s industrial development and reflects a growing consensus on the need for coordinated action to address environmental and climate challenges in the textile sector.

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