The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has urged ready-made garment (RMG) factory owners to ensure timely payment of wages to workers, following a wave of unrest across the sector. The appeal comes amid growing tensions and protests by garment workers demanding better wages and improved working conditions, which have disrupted operations in several factories.
BGMEA President Faruque Hassan emphasized the importance of maintaining stability in the industry, which is a critical pillar of Bangladesh’s economy, employing over 4 million workers and accounting for more than 80% of the country’s export earnings.
In a recent statement, Hassan highlighted that delayed wage payments not only violate labor laws but also fuel dissatisfaction and unrest among workers, which could potentially harm the reputation of Bangladesh’s garment industry on the global stage.
The BGMEA has also called on factory owners to adhere strictly to labor rights and to improve communication with workers to address grievances promptly. The association stressed that ensuring fair and timely compensation is essential to maintaining a motivated and productive workforce, especially in the face of increasing international scrutiny over labor practices in Bangladesh.
To further support factory owners, BGMEA has proposed discussions with the government to explore potential financial assistance or policy adjustments that could ease the financial burdens on factories, particularly those struggling amid rising production costs and fluctuating global demand.
BGMEA’s appeal underscores the urgent need for collective action from all stakeholders to safeguard the welfare of workers and sustain the growth of Bangladesh’s RMG sector in an increasingly competitive global market.
