RMG workers' movement seeks to destabilise govt: BKMEA chief

Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) President Mohammad Hatem has alleged that the ongoing garment workers' movement is aimed at putting the government in difficulty and creating instability.

The issue of attempts to create unrest in industrial establishments in the name of workers' protests was also discussed at a meeting involving government policymakers, law enforcement agencies and business leaders.

Hatem said the movement was intended to cause public suffering and damage factories, adding that attempts were being made to put the government in an awkward position.

Read More

Who is orchestrating the garment workers' protests?

He said a minimum wage board had already been formed, with workers' representatives included, and that the minimum wage would be determined through discussions at the negotiating table.

The BKMEA president urged the government to investigate whether anyone was instigating the movement.

Speaking to the media, Hatem warned that even a day's production shutdown could affect nearly one-third of the country's total exports.

He said disruptions to production could also raise concerns among international buyers about timely delivery of products, potentially undermining their confidence in the long run.