The computerized embroidery powerhouse.
Over 4,000 RMG factories, a $670 million market, and the association that represents all of it.
The computerized embroidery powerhouse.
Bangladesh's embroidery sector has modernised rapidly. Over 4,000 active RMG factories run multi-head computerized machines, delivering embroidered garments, patches and customized apparel for global brands — with BEMEA as the sector's sole representative body since 1998.
Part of South Asia's embroidery corridor.
Bangladesh's machine embroidery sits alongside India's heritage handcraft clusters — Lucknow's GI-protected Chikankari, Gujarat's mirror work and Mumbai's Zardozi. Together the region supplies over half of the embroidery used in global luxury ready-to-wear.
Four decades of thread.
AEPC founded
Apparel Export Promotion Council of India established — begins facilitating embroidered garment exports globally.
EPCH established
Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts becomes the apex body for Indian embroidery and craft exports.
BEMEA founded
Bangladesh Embroidery Manufacturer and Exporter Association established as the sole representative body for the computerized embroidery sector.
Computerization boom
Bangladesh rapidly adopts multi-head computerized embroidery machines, scaling capacity exponentially.
Chikankari GI tag
Lucknow Chikankari receives Geographical Indication protection, safeguarding the heritage craft internationally.
Luxury partnerships
South Asian artisans begin formal partnerships with global luxury houses, elevating embroidery to haute couture.
BEMEA election
BEMEA holds its Board of Directors election for 2024–2026 and expands the Chattogram Zone.
$828M+ combined market
The regional industry reaches $828M+ — Bangladesh at $670M, India exports at $158M.
$1B+ projected milestone
Bangladesh alone projected to reach $968M; the combined regional market expected to surpass $1.2B.