Matex Bangladesh Limited (MBL) a sister concern of Apex Holdings Limited, started its production and distribution of specialty chemicals in 1994. The main objective of MBL’s local production facility was to supply fresh textile auxiliaries with the highest activity to local industries. Recently Matex Bangladesh Ltd. has got the opportunity to get the bluesign system partner agreement for the chemical supplier’s category. This opportunity has the first local manufacturing in Bangladesh whose 70 major fast-moving products (out of 150 products) are enlisted in acid-neutralizer, wetting agents, enzymes, sequestering agents, detergents, anti-creasing agents, leveling agents, dispersing agents, soaping agents, fixing agents, softener, lubricants, bleaching agents, and optical brightener were enrolled in the system.
Recently Team Textile Focus met Mr. Mahir Ahmed, Director, Apex Holdings Limited. Mr. Mahir grew up in Bangladesh. He went to the American school over here and graduated with an IB Diploma. For his higher studies, he was at the University of Toronto studying Genetics and Biotechnology. He continued his education at the School of African and Oriental Studies in London in Chinese studies. He then took one year in Shanghai to develop close relationships with all his business suppliers and studied the Chinese language because he wanted a deeper understanding of Chinese business culture. In 2016, he came back and joined Apex as a Director. For him, it has been a good journey but given his experience in China, it naturally made sense for him to take part in their supply chain and procurement. Now he is very happy with the business volume and welcomes the competition that is forthcoming. Key discussion points are mentioned below for our readers-
Textile Focus: Matex is one of the oldest local manufacturing plants for the textile industry. What is the recent scenario of your company?
Mahir Ahmed: Mostly Matex was producing auxiliary chemicals and supporting the garments industry in Bangladesh. Now we are planning to expand our contribution to fabric printing and dyes. Because most of the pigments and thickeners are imported from China or Turkey, at present. With the growing demand in Bangladesh, we recognize the importance of diversifying our product range to cater to the market’s evolving needs.
Textile Focus: As Bangladesh RMG export is increasing, there is an increase in textile processing chemicals for the industry. How do you see the opportunities for your company?
Mahir Ahmed: There are indeed numerous opportunities for Matex. Many Chinese brands and other renowned names are already coming to Bangladesh, recognizing the potential we saw 20 years ago. Our focus now is on conducting thorough research on the chemicals that are currently imported. We plan to manufacture these chemicals locally and distribute them within the RMG industry.
Textile Focus: Matex is the first local manufacturing company we got blue sign certification for its products. How did you feel about the necessity of this?
Mahir Ahmed: The bluesign certification is much more than a mere paper document. It entails rigorous optimization and stringent processes. During the certification process, our manufacturing practices were thoroughly evaluated, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness. It also involved scrutiny of our raw material collection processes, verifying that we use proper materials. This certification is a testament to the reliability and high-quality standards of our products.
Textile Focus: There are some local and even some MNCs setting up manufacturing plants in Bangladesh. How do you see the prospect?
Mahir Ahmed: Competition is a positive force for both businesses and the country. It motivates us to continuously improve ourselves and strengthen our R&D capabilities. The entry of other companies into the market presents us with opportunities to grow and excel. We welcome competition as it drives us to become the best and opens up new possibilities.
Textile Focus: What are the extra benefits the factories will get from your factory as a Bangladeshi manufacturer?
Mahir Ahmed: Whether a manufacturer is local or international, the key factor lies in the quality of the products they offer. At Matex, we have the advantage of being in the industry for the past 20 years, giving us an in-depth understanding of the market. Our strong R&D section ensures that our products consistently meet the highest standards, regardless of our competitors’ origins.
Textile Focus: What about your current product range and R&D support?
Mahir Ahmed: We have recently established our R&D team. Right now, our R&D team is working on dyes and chemical materials which are currently imported. Our objective is to produce those dyes and chemicals locally and try to figure out the best way. As of now, our product range primarily includes auxiliary chemicals, but we envision expanding to include dyes and pigments so that we can reduce our reliance on Chinese brands and other imports.
Textile Focus: Any future plan for Matex Bangladesh Ltd?
Mahir Ahmed: We are now preparing ourselves to enter the textile dyes and pigments market. We are investing in the R&D department to increase our product range. Now, the market situation is not good, but it will not last forever. When the market situation is all right, we will grab the opportunity and invest in new product manufacturing. We hope that we will become successful.
