The 2026 Bangladesh International Sewing Equipment Exhibition, held in Dhaka from January 14, has become a showcase for the global garment machinery industry’s shift toward automation, digitization and integrated solutions. As Bangladesh— the world’s second-largest garment exporter, with the sector accounting for over 80% of its total exports—undergoes a critical transition from labor-intensive to technology-driven production, demand for smart equipment is surging, attracting leading manufacturers from China, Japan and beyond to present their latest innovations.
Chinese manufacturers are playing a pivotal role in this transformation, leveraging cost advantages, localized services and targeted technological innovations. Zhejiang Zhongjie Sewing Technology Co., Ltd., a veteran player in the Bangladeshi market for 15 years, showcased over 10 core products, including its "Stitch Master" intelligent lockstitch machine launched in June 2025 and a range of smart template machines. Zhou Longhui, Director of Zhongjie’s Bangladesh-Myanmar Region, noted that local customers are no longer satisfied with basic functionality but seek a balance of efficiency and quality. "Features like the ‘Stitch Master’s anti-‘bird’s nest’ function are crucial for factories to secure high-value orders," he explained, adding that large-scale Bangladeshi factories with thousands of employees have refined demands comparable to those in China.
Japan’s Brother Industries, a global leader in sewing machinery, emphasized long-term sustainable solutions rather than short-term sales. Represented by authorized distributors at the expo, Brother displayed its advanced equipment across four booths, focusing on productivity packages tailored to Bangladesh’s industrial upgrade. H N Ashiqur Rahman, Chief Representative of Brother International Singapore’s Dhaka Liaison Office, stated that buyer priorities have shifted to return on investment, production efficiency and sustainability. "We don’t just sell machines—we provide comprehensive solutions, including after-sales service, technical support and skill training," he said. Partnering with China’s Changzhou IMB Electromechanical Technology, Brother aims to support local factories in denim, knitwear and shirt production with automated systems.
New entrants are also seizing opportunities in the fast-growing market. Zhejiang Naituo Electromechanical Technology made its debut at the Dhaka Expo, presenting high-speed oil-free pattern template machines with laser and cold cutting functions. Lin Meixi, Naituo’s Foreign Trade Manager, revealed the company has received inquiries from over 50 potential clients, with demand focusing on automated sewing equipment. "Customers now care more about turnkey solutions and after-sales service than just price," she said. Naituo has established a local technical service center and adopted a "training + on-site support" model to help factories transition smoothly to automation.
Intelligent logistics systems are another key focus. INA, a leader in smart hanging and factory logistics solutions, highlighted its integrated plant planning services, which address the coordination gaps between production and logistics in Bangladeshi factories. Alvin Ang, INA’s South Asia Regional Sales Director, noted that large export-oriented factories are seeking flexible responses to increasing quick-turn orders. The company has built local technical capabilities, offering end-to-end support from installation to software upgrades, with interfaces available in both English and Bengali to suit local operations.
Industry data underscores the market’s growth potential. The Chinese garment machinery market, a major global driver, is projected to reach 75.8 billion yuan ($10.6 billion) in 2026, with a compound annual growth rate of 8.5% from 2023. Smart equipment, including automated cutting systems and intelligent sewing units, is emerging as the fastest-growing segment, with its market share expected to rise from 15% to 25% by 2026. In Bangladesh, over 80% of garment manufacturers plan to invest in automation within two years, driven by rising labor costs and global competition.
Analysts anticipate continued intensification of competition and innovation. While Chinese brands excel in cost-effectiveness and rapid product development, foreign giants like Brother maintain advantages in reliability and precision engineering. "The industry is moving beyond standalone equipment to integrated solutions," said a senior analyst at a global market research firm. "As Bangladesh accelerates its automation drive, manufacturers that combine technological innovation with localized services will capture the biggest opportunities in this transformative market."
