Factories Reopen Amid Garment Sector Unrest in Bangladesh, Reports Reuters

By Ruma Paul

DHAKA – Most garment factories in Bangladesh reopened on Tuesday after violent protests over wage increases led to one fatality and numerous injuries the previous day, as reported by officials.

Bangladesh, a key player in the global garment industry and a supplier for numerous Western brands, has experienced widespread protests in recent weeks, resulting in the closure of several factories. These protests have compounded an already significant production backlog caused by recent political unrest and severe flooding, according to industry insiders.

"Most of the factories are operational today, and everything is running smoothly so far," stated Abdullah Hil Rakib, senior vice president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA). He noted that only five or six smaller factories remain closed due to unpaid wages.

Rakib highlighted that unrest in the sector persists, driven by certain factions spreading misinformation and exploiting the deteriorating law and order situation. He called upon the government to improve security, as some factory owners have faced challenges due to vandalism and ongoing disturbances.

“Enhanced security is crucial for maintaining smooth production and safeguarding our industry,” Rakib emphasized.

A labor ministry official mentioned that a review committee is evaluating the garment sector’s capacity to adjust wage structures, with a report expected soon. The government is also assessing police complaints lodged against workers to ensure they are shielded from harassment.

Garment factory owners have urged the government to take swift measures to restore order and ensure the safety of their operations, as the unrest poses a threat to an industry that generates over 80% of the country’s export earnings.

In 2023, Bangladesh was the third-largest clothing exporter globally, following China and the European Union, with exports valued at $38.4 billion, according to the World Trade Organization.

This ongoing unrest occurs during a critical period for Bangladesh, as the interim government led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus has taken control following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation. The former prime minister fled to India in early August amid the deadliest violence in the country since gaining independence in 1971, which resulted in over 700 casualties.

Industry leaders have cautioned that continued unrest may prompt global brands to relocate their production to countries like Indonesia, India, and Pakistan.

"Workers should consider: if the industry can’t thrive, how will they?" remarked a garment factory owner.