The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) yesterday sought cooperation from Reitmans, a Canadian clothing retailer, for developing value-added products in Bangladesh.

In addition, the organisation urged Reitmans to source more value-added garment items from the country as it would benefit both sides.

BGMEA President Faruque Hassan sought the cooperation during a meeting with Gary Ross, chief of global sourcing at Reitmans, and Pauline Ng, managing director of Reitmans Canada Limited Asia, at the BGMEA office in Dhaka.

The Canadian clothing company operates several brands, including Reitmans, Penningtons, Addition Ell, Hyba, Thyme and RW&CO.

During the meeting, they discussed various trade-related issues, including the situation of the global apparel market and Reitmans' plans for expanding its business in Bangladesh.