The Ministry of Labour and Employment in collaboration with the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments (DIFE) has set up a control room to closely monitor labour conditions and address workers’ unrest in both RMG and non-RMG sectors ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr.  The workers can report grievances by calling the toll-free labour helpline at 16357, according to a press release issued by the ministry on Tuesday.

The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has announced the election schedule for its new board of directors for the term 2025-2027. Polling for the 35 director positions will take place on May 28, according to a BGMEA press release issued on Saturday. BGMEA administrator’s tenure extended by 4 months   March 29 was set as the deadline for members to clear any outstanding dues. To be included in the voter list, members must submit their nominations by April 6, it said. The deadline for director candidates to submit their nomination papers is April 24, while the last date for withdrawal of nominations is May 6. BGMEA chief stresses fair pricing for industry sustainability BGMEA urged its members to contact Mahmudul Hasan, secretary of the Election Board and director of the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), for further information regarding the election.

Bangladesh's Ready-Made Garment (RMG) exports have shown moderate growth, with the European Union remaining a key market, according to data from the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) for the July-January period of the fiscal year 2024-25. The EU represented 50.15% of Bangladesh’s total RMG exports, with a total value of US$11.81 billion, Mohiuddin Rubel, former director of BGMEA, said on Sunday while sharing the data. Shipments to the United States reached US$4.47 billion, accounting for 18.99% of the total share, while the UK market was also significant, with exports valued at US$2.5 billion, equivalent to 10.83% of Bangladesh's total RMG exports during the specified timeframe. In terms of growth, our RMG exports to the EU expanded by 13.91% year-over-year, with the USA showing a robust increase of 16.45%. The RMG exports to the UK, however, grew at a more modest rate of 4.55%. Bangladeshi apparel exports to US market grow slightly amid global market pressure Within the EU, Germany emerged as a key market, with Bangladesh’s exports amounting to US$2.97 billion, trailed by Spain at US$2 billion, France at US$1.28 billion, and the Netherlands at US$1.25 billion. The growth rates were particularly notable in Germany (13.47%), the Netherlands (27.3%), Poland (13.7%), Denmark (18.56%), and Sweden (26.7%). Bangladesh's RMG sector also demonstrated growth in non-traditional markets, with an overall increase of 6.42%, signaling potential for further expansion. Among these markets, Japan led with imports totaling US$721 million, followed by Australia at US$512 million, and India at US$427 million. Exports to countries like Turkey and Mexico are also significant, amounting to US$263 million and US$208 million, respectively. While growth in Japan, Australia, India, Turkey, and Mexico is encouraging during this period, exports to Russia, Korea, China, UAE, and Malaysia have declined. The continued growth in exports is heavily reliant on the EU and USA, which remain the primary markets for Bangladesh, highlighting further potential within these regions. The ongoing global trade tensions are reshaping the landscape, presenting opportunities that Bangladesh could capitalize on, provided we possess the necessary productive capacity. Concurrently, there should be a concerted focus on investments in backward linkages to support and enhance our RMG sector's competitiveness and growth potential.

The latest data on annual US apparel imports, covering 2024, show the performance of major supplying countries in the global apparel market. Despite a modest overall growth in US apparel imports, with a 1.82% increase in value and a 5.88% rise in volume, there was a notable 3.83% decrease in average unit prices, indicating a competitive market with downward pressure on pricing, Mohiuddin Rubel, former director of BGMEA, said while sharing the data. Bangladesh managed to hold its ground, achieving a slight 0.73% increase in export value to the US, reaching US$7.34 billion. US delegation with focus on workers' rights visits BGMEA The country also experienced a 4.86% growth in export volume. However, similar to the overall market trend, Bangladesh faced a 3.94% decline in unit price, which has a direct impact on profitability. In comparison to other key apparel exporting countries, Bangladesh's performance was moderate. Vietnam showed a robust 5.67% increase in value and a 9.47% rise in volume, while India demonstrated significant growth with a 4.95% increase in value and a 13.09% rise in volume. Cambodia stood out with a remarkable 14.48% increase in value and an 18.45% growth in volume, highlighting its competitive edge in the market. BGMEA chief stresses fair pricing for industry sustainability On the other hand, Mexico and Korea faced challenges, with Mexico experiencing a 6.78% decrease in value and a 15.18% drop in volume, and Korea seeing a 12.94% reduction in value and a 5.56% decrease in volume. As Bangladesh has shown a relatively slower growth in its export to the US compared to the major suppliers, it underscores the need for strategic initiatives to address the issues and declining competitiveness. While the escalating trade tensions present potential opportunities for Bangladesh, it is imperative that we proactively address our own challenges and limitations to seize these advantages effectively.  

Bangladesh’s readymade garment (RMG) exports hit an impressive $38.48 billion in 2024, showcasing the sector’s ongoing success. The European Union remained the largest market, accounting for 50.34% of total RMG exports, valued at $19.37 billion. The United States followed with $7.2 billion (18.72%), while the United Kingdom contributed $4.3 billion (11.25%), Mohiuddin Rubel, former director of BGMEA, shared the data. RMG machinery, allied products mega-expo starts Jan 8 in Dhaka Germany, Spain, and France were key markets within the EU, importing $4.83 billion, $3.42 billion, and $2.14 billion worth of RMG products, respectively. Canada also played a notable role, with exports totalling $1.24 billion and a 3.23% market share. Beyond traditional markets, Bangladesh is making notable strides in non-traditional regions. Exports to countries like Japan, Australia, India, Turkey, and Russia amounted to $6.33 billion, or 16.46% of total RMG exports. Japan was the top destination among these markets, with $1.12 billion in exports, followed by Australia at $831 million, India at $606 million, Turkey at $426 million, and Russia at $343 million. Proportion of women in RMG sector declining as few fill mid-to-top level positions This expansion into non-traditional markets is helping to diversify Bangladesh’s export base and strengthen the resilience of its RMG industry on the global stage.

Ahead of the Eid-ul-Fitr (March-end), garment workers in Dhaka have issued a set of six demands, including a bonus equivalent to one month’s wage, as part of a broader call for fair treatment and improved working conditions. The demands were voiced by the Dhaka Garment Workers’ Wage Increase Struggle Council during a rally held in front of the National Press Club on Friday. Proportion of women in RMG sector declining as few fill mid-to-top level positions Speakers at the rally highlighted the mounting pressures caused by skyrocketing living costs, arguing that current wages are inadequate to meet even basic needs. Prices of essential goods keep rising, but the wages remain unchanged; it's becoming impossible to survive, said one protester. Workers accused employers of withholding portions of their salaries, forcing many to take on grueling work schedules of 14-16 hours a day. Despite the labor law stipulation for double overtime pay, they claim employers routinely fail to comply. RMG machinery, allied products mega-expo starts Jan 8 in Dhaka The workers also criticized the widespread delay in salary payments. Under the law, wages are to be disbursed by the 7th of each month, but workers allege this deadline is rarely met. Many also condemned the practice of withholding wages until the night before Eid, calling it "illegal and inhumane." The garment workers outlined six primary demands: 1. Set minimum wages in line with rising market prices. 2. Limit workdays to 8 hours and enforce double pay for overtime. 3. Provide a bonus equivalent to one month’s wages for Eid-ul-Fitr. 4. Ensure salaries are paid by the 7th of every month. 5. Abolish the practice of withholding wages until just before Eid. 6. Enhance workplace safety, ensure job security, introduce equal pay for female workers, and provide health-friendly meals and night allowances for night shifts. Speakers at the rally demanded fair treatment, better working conditions, and compliance with existing labor laws.

Tuomo Poutiainen, Country Director of the International Labour Organization (ILO), met with Anwar Hossain, Administrator of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), at the BGMEA Complex on Sunday. During the meeting, they discussed a range of crucial issues related to Bangladesh's ready-made garment (RMG) industry, including workplace safety, workers' rights, labour law reforms, and environmental sustainability, according to a media statement. The conversation also highlighted ongoing ILO-led initiatives, particularly the Better Work Bangladesh programme, which aims to improve working conditions and ensure occupational safety for RMG workers. Netherlands Ambassador, BGMEA Administrator discuss collaboration for a sustainable RMG industry in Bangladesh Both Poutiainen and Hossain emphasised the need for continued efforts to create safer, fairer, and more sustainable workplaces in the sector. In addition, the discussion focused on potential future collaboration between the ILO and BGMEA, especially in capacity building aligned with international standards, such as the European Union’s Due Diligence Directive. This directive aims to hold companies accountable for human rights and environmental impacts across their supply chains. Anwar Hossain highlighted the significant progress the industry has made in workplace safety, workers' rights, and environmental sustainability. He reaffirmed the sector’s commitment to further advancing these areas. Sri Lankan envoy discusses trade opportunities with BGMEA The BGMEA also urged the ILO to consider projects that promote social dialogue and harmonious industrial relations within Bangladesh’s RMG sector. Furthermore, they called for collaboration in developing the workforce’s skills in line with advancements in AI and technology. BGMEA Support Committee Member ANM Saifuddin was also present at the meeting.

The government has recommended an annual increment of 9% for workers in the readymade garment sector, increasing four present salaries from the existing five percent, said Brigadier General (Retd.) Sakhawat Hossain, Adviser on Shipping and Labour & Employment. Besides, the annual increment determined by the Minimum Wage Board, equivalent to 5% of the existing salary, will continue to remain in effect, he said while speaking at a press briefing held at the ministry on Monday. Washington lauds labour reforms, expects more; stands by RMG The additional 4% increment, as per the recommendations, will be implemented from December 1, 2024 and disbursed along with the salary for January, he said. Along with this salary increase, other benefits related to the Bangladesh Labour Act 2006 (as amended) will also be applicable, said the adviser. He further said that this wage increment will remain in effect until it is re-evaluated by the government or a new minimum wage rate is announced by the Minimum Wage Board. Action urged to address long-term decline in women's share of workers in RMG Sakhawat also urged both employers and workers to work together to implement the recommendation in the national interest.

The U.S. apparel imports data by the country from January-September of 2023 and 2024 suggests that while the overall U.S. apparel import saw a slight decline, there was significant movement within the market, with some countries experiencing growth and others declined. Total U.S. apparel imports decreased by 2.47% between Jan-Sep 2023 and Jan-Sep 2024, said Mohiuddin Rubel, former Director of BGMEA and Additional Managing Director, Denim Expert Ltd. Among all the reported countries, a substantial decrease in imports from Bangladesh is concerning, which is -6.29%. This is a significant drop compared to other major suppliers, he said. However, the decline was even higher in the January-August period, meaning that a significant growth in import from Bangladesh was achieved in the month of September 2024. Several countries showed growth in apparel imports to the U.S., including Vietnam (1.27%), Cambodia (7.15%), and Pakistan (2.41%). This suggests a shift in sourcing patterns. Varied performance of different apparel-exporting countries, indicate a competitive global market which has been significantly driven by price and supply chain stability, Rubel said.

Representatives from the Buyers' Forum met with BGMEA Administrator Md. Anwar Hossain at the BGMEA Complex in Uttara, Dhaka today to discuss the current state and sustainable growth prospects of Bangladesh's garment industry. Members of the BGMEA Support Committee also attended the meeting. The discussions focused on key issues facing the garment industry, including strategies to further boost Bangladesh's garment exports. Md. Anwar Hossain expressed gratitude for the continued support from global brands and emphasized the industry's progress in workplace safety, environmental sustainability, and worker welfare, urging brands to promote these achievements internationally. Representatives from major global brands sourcing from Bangladesh, including H&M, Marks & Spencer, VF Corporation, Gemo, Celio, Gap, OUS, Auchan, CSS, Allure Sourcing, Otto International, and El Corte Inglés, were present at the meeting, underscoring the collaborative effort to drive sustainable growth in the sector.