The Transfer from Fast Fashion to Slow Fashion: Challenges and Opportunities for Bangladesh’s RMG Sector

The global fashion industry is experiencing a significant transition from fast fashion to slow fashion, influenced by growing sustainability concerns, shifting consumer behaviors, and stricter regulations. Bangladesh, a key player in the ready-made garment (RMG) sector, has long relied on fast fashion-driven mass production. However, the declining demand for fast fashion poses major challenges, such as decreased large-scale orders, workforce displacement, and rising compliance costs. At the same time, this shift presents opportunities for the industry to adopt sustainable practices, ethical manufacturing, and higher-value production. This study explores the impact of this transformation on Bangladesh’s RMG sector, assessing both the risks and potential benefits. It also highlights key adaptation strategies, including investment in ecofriendly materials, skill development, and policy enhancements, to maintain global competitiveness in the changing fashion market.