Key representatives from the Bangladeshi packaging industry met with the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) and ITC in Dhaka to announce the official creation of the Bangladesh Packaging Working Group (BPWG). The BPWG formalizes the desire of the different sub-sectors of the packaging industry to team up with EPB and ITC. This initiative will significantly help the Bangladesh Quality Support Programme, funded by the European Commission Office in Bangladesh, to achieve its objective.  The ultimate aim is to significantly increase the capabilities of the packaging industries in their ability to successfully support the growing export sectors with better performing and internationally compliant packaging materials.

Export packaging is a vital component for export success. This joint effort illustrates the commitment taken by the packaging industry to take on the challenge and develop a national industry operating to international standards.

“The Bangladesh Packaging Working Group (BPWG)” is initially created with the participation of BCCAMEA, BPGMEA and the Jute Spinners Association. The cross-industry working group is an open forum for stakeholders interested in the objective of the programme. Other packaging industry sectors will be welcomed to join this important industry initiative.

BCCAMEA, the Bangladesh Corrugated Carton & Accessories Manufacturers and Exporters Association, will lead this cross-sectoral effort.

The newly created BPWG will drive and support the national packaging industry audit currently under development with national and international experts. The audit will highlight the key areas of improvement and will outline the action plans required. Seminars are planned in the coming months to present the results of the survey to the industry, governmental organizations and support institutions, including the donor community.

The programme will continue over the 2007-2008 horizon with a seminars and workshops designed to raise the awareness and capabilities of key export sectors identified for this programme.