Bangladesh’s readymade garment (RMG) industry is increasingly adopting AI-powered Internet of Things (IoT) systems to improve production efficiency, monitor quality and stay competitive in the global market.
Several major exporters, including Snowtex Group, Fatullah Apparels, Team Group, Yunusco Group and Sparrow Group, have introduced the technology, while others such as Ha-Meem Group, DBL Group, Urmi Group and Fakir Fashions are reportedly planning to follow.
Snowtex Group has deployed IoT devices across around 10,000 sewing machines since 2023. Managing Director SM Khaled said the company has recorded productivity gains of up to 25% compared with manual monitoring.
The system provides real-time data on production, machine performance and defects. Managers can quickly identify problems involving machines or operators and take corrective action, helping reduce downtime.
Sparrow Group, which has installed the technology on about half of its sewing machines, has reported a 5%-10% productivity increase. The company plans to expand the system to all its sewing machines by 2027.
The technology is also being linked to worker incentive schemes. Operators who meet production targets and maintain lower defect rates can receive additional bonuses. Some workers at Snowtex reported earning Tk2,000-Tk3,000 more per month through such incentives.
However, labour leaders have raised concerns that higher production targets could increase pressure on workers. Some workers also reported increased hourly targets after digital monitoring was introduced, although others welcomed the additional income.
Industry leaders say digitalisation is increasingly necessary for Bangladesh to compete with countries such as China, Vietnam, Indonesia and Cambodia. Bangladesh’s worker efficiency is estimated at 40%-50%, compared with 60%-70% in China and Vietnam.
Experts and industry officials say wider adoption of digital monitoring could help Bangladesh’s garment sector improve productivity, reduce production losses and strengthen its position in the global apparel market.
