The recent labour unrest in September and October has led to an estimated production loss of nearly $400 million (Tk 4,800 crore) in the garment sector, according to the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA).

"Maintaining law and order and ensuring discipline are now the key challenges facing the garment industry, though factory operations have returned to normal," said BGMEA President Khandoker Rafiqul Islam during a press conference today (October 19) at the BGMEA office in the capital.

He also requested the government to refrain from disconnecting utility services like gas and electricity for three months in any industry affected by the unrest. 

To continue the normal production activities of ready-made garment factories, instructions should be given to those concerned to supply gas through cylinders from CNG stations on an urgent basis.

He demanded the formulation of a sustainable power and energy policy including ensuring adequate power supply to the garment industry and determining the rational price of power.

Besides, he urged the government to reduce bank interest rates to single digits to provide further relief to businesses.

BDST: 1950 HRS, OCT 19, 2024
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