BGMEA President Faruque Hassan has said the prestigious position attainted by the ready-made garment industry of Bangladesh is built upon the years of hard works and dedication of both workers and entrepreneurs.  

The industry has immense contributions to rebuilding the war-ravaged country which is now a ‘development surprise’ to many in the world due to its impressive performance in socio-economic development over the last 50 years, he said.

 The BGMEA chief made the observations while delivering his speech as guest of honor at a program organized by Bangladesh Textile & Garment Workers League (BTGWL) in Dhaka on Friday, marking 50 years of BTGWL. 

Awami League Presidium Member Shajahan Khan MP and General Secretary of Bangladesh Trade Union Kendra Dr. Wajedul Islam Khan were present as special guests. 

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BTGWL President Z M Kamrul Anam presided over the program.

In his address Faruque Hassan said the RMG industry of Bangladesh has made significant progress in the areas of safety and sustainability, especially workers’ well-being and industrial relations. 

 He further said starting from the elimination of child Labour in mid-nineties, and the emerging compliances issues including timely payment of wages, ensuring the minimum wage, overtime, hygiene at workplace, the industry has responded well.

 “The Labour Law was amended twice in 2013 and in 2018, and Labor Rules was promulgated in 2015 to ensure workers well-being and safety at workplace. A central fund has been created under the supervision of the government where garment factories are contributing more than $15 million of their export receipts to be used for the workers’ welfare purposes,” he added.