US Agency for International Development (USAID) has launched a $5 million project titled “Women Thrive in Bangladesh” to empower women who are working in readymade garment factories in Bangladesh. With the US government support, CARE Bangladesh will implement the new project and expand professional development opportunities for over 100,000 women working in sector by equipping them with market-oriented leadership skills. Read USAID: Some structural issues to be fixed in Bhasan Char

Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has sought cooperation from Russia to remove the bilateral trade barriers and facilitate exports of readymade garments and other Bangladeshi products to its market. Russian Ambassador to Bangladesh Alexander Vikentyevich Mantytskiy called upon BGMEA President Faruque Hassan in the capital Thursday. They had discussions on various trade-related issues, especially how bilateral trade could be enhanced. Read: BGMEA urges BBCCI to promote more trade between Bangladesh, UK BGMEA President Faruque Hassan said Russia is a promising market where there is a great demand for Bangladeshi garments. "But barriers to transactions through banking channels and tariff complications are stumbling blocks to apparel exports to the country." BGMEA Vice-President Miran Ali and First Secretary at the Russian Embassy in Dhaka Anton Vereshchagin were also present.  

The IndustriALL Bangladesh Council (IBC) on Sunday demanded six months’ fully paid maternity leave for workers at readymade garment (RMG) factories.