[Bangladesh] Wage board established as garment workers' unrest closes factories

On November 1 in Bangladesh, a wage board was established to review garment workers' pay and encourage employees to return to work after violent protests forced the closure of more than 500 factories, Reuters reports.

During the industrial action, police fired tear gas and water cannon at demonstrators.

The garment industry dispute has reportedly prompted concerns about widespread disruption to an industry that employs around 4 million workers, generates more than 80 per cent of Bangladesh's export earnings and supplies clothing to many leading Western brands.

The nation’s workers are demanding a monthly minimum wage of 30,000 taka ($245), more than double the current 12,500 rate, citing rising costs of food, housing, transport and healthcare that have sharply eroded their purchasing power.

Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury stated that the wage board was formed following discussions with workers' representatives and industry leaders. He urged workers to resume work.

The six-member wage board reportedly comprises two representatives from workers and employers, respectively, a government ⁠representative and a neutral member. The body has been tasked with reviewing wages in the garment sector and recommending revised pay rates.

Mr Choudhury said prolonged disruptions could delay export shipments and payments from international buyers, creating further difficulties for both manufacturers and workers.

Source: Reuters

On November 1 in Bangladesh, a wage board was established to review garment workers' pay and encourage employees to return to work after violent protests forced the closure of more than 500 factories, Reuters reports.

During the industrial action, police fired tear gas and water cannon at demonstrators.

The garment industry dispute has reportedly prompted concerns about widespread disruption to an industry that employs around 4 million workers, generates more than 80 per cent of Bangladesh's export earnings and supplies clothing to many leading Western brands.

The nation’s workers are demanding a monthly minimum wage of 30,000 taka ($245), more than double the current 12,500 rate, citing rising costs of food, housing, transport and healthcare that have sharply eroded their purchasing power.

Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury stated that the wage board was formed following discussions with workers' representatives and industry leaders. He urged workers to resume work.

The six-member wage board reportedly comprises two representatives from workers and employers, respectively, a government ⁠representative and a neutral member. The body has been tasked with reviewing wages in the garment sector and recommending revised pay rates.

Mr Choudhury said prolonged disruptions could delay export shipments and payments from international buyers, creating further difficulties for both manufacturers and workers.

Source: Reuters