BUTEX hosts int’l fibre-polymer focusing sustainable innovation in textile sector
The International Conference on Fibres and Polymers (ICFP) opened on Tuesday in Dhaka, marking a pivotal moment for Bangladesh’s growing role in sustainable innovation within the global textile and polymer industries.
The two-day event, hosted at the Bangladesh University of Textiles (BUTEX) in Tejgaon, brings together leading researchers, academics, and industry experts from around the world to explore next-generation technologies and sustainable advancements.
Organised by the Society of Fibre Science, Bangladesh in collaboration with International Standard University (ISU) and BUTEX, the conference aims to strengthen research linkages and open new avenues for international collaboration, positioning Bangladesh’s RMG sector at the forefront of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
The inauguration ceremony, held on Tuesday afternoon, was presided over by Professor Dr MA Barik, President of the Society of Fiber Science, Bangladesh, and faculty member at Shizuoka University, Japan. He emphasised the importance of integrating global research standards with local industry needs.
“This conference serves as a vital bridge between Bangladesh’s textile and polymer industries and world-class scientific innovation,” said Prof Barik. “It provides a unique platform for our students and researchers to engage directly with international experts, enhancing competitiveness and driving sustainable growth.”
Global experts highlight Bangladesh’s potential
Special guest Dr Takeshi Kikutani, former President of the Japan Fibre Society and Professor at the Institute of Science Tokyo, underscored Bangladesh’s strategic position in the global garment market. “As one of the largest apparel exporters, Bangladesh has a tremendous opportunity,” he noted. “By investing in eco-friendly fibres, circular technologies, and sustainable R&D, the sector can evolve beyond manufacturing into high-value innovation.”
Echoing this sentiment, Professor Carolyn L Shawer, President of the US Fibre Society, highlighted the expanding applications of fibres and polymers beyond textiles—spanning healthcare, environmental remediation, aerospace, and renewable energy. “Modern fibres are not just for clothing,” she said. “They’re enabling breakthroughs in smart textiles, biomedicine, and clean energy. Bangladesh has the potential to become a key player in this multidisciplinary field.”
Spotlight on academia-industry collaboration
In his address, Professor Dr Md Julhas Uddin, Vice-Chancellor of BUTEX, stressed the importance of sustained knowledge exchange. “Today’s students are eager to contribute to global research,” he said. “With structured joint research programmes, especially with technologically advanced nations like Japan, we can elevate our textile and polymer industries to new heights. This conference should be the foundation of long-term academic-industrial partnerships.”
The event was also attended by prominent figures including Professor Mohammad Abul Kashem, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology at ISU; Professor HTM Kader Newaz, ISU Treasurer; and Professor Dr Mohammad Masudur Rahman from the European University of Bangladesh (EUB), alongside researchers, educators, and industry entrepreneurs.
Key themes: Sustainability, technology, and innovation
The conference agenda covers a broad spectrum of cutting-edge topics, including sustainable and recycled fibres, nano- and electronic textiles, medical and geotextiles, the revival of muslin and other heritage textiles, carbon and glass fibre composites, smart spinning and weaving technologies, eco-friendly wet processing, polymer engineering, fibre property analysis, and Industry 4.0 applications in the ready-made garments (RMG) sector, reflecting a comprehensive approach to innovation, sustainability, and technological advancement in the textile and polymer industries.
Organisers believe the ICFP will not only stimulate new research but also inform policy development, foster innovative product design, and lay the groundwork for long-term international cooperation.
“This is more than an academic gathering,” said a conference coordinator. “It’s a catalyst for transforming Bangladesh’s textile-polymer ecosystem into a hub of sustainable, technology-driven manufacturing.”
With global demand shifting toward ethical and low-impact production, the ICFP underscores Bangladesh’s ambition to lead not just in volume, but in innovation, sustainability, and scientific excellence.