The apparel industry has gone through a challenging period and has now stabilized. Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) president Khandaker Rafiqul Islam commented that the BGMEA board has been able to deal with the disastrous situation with the cooperation of the government, owners, workers, Bangladesh army and law enforcement forces.

He said these things in a press conference held at BGMEA complex in Uttara on Saturday.

Khandaker Rafiqul Islam said, everyone has given us full cooperation. For that BGMEA Board Govt
He expressed his gratitude to all concerned including the army. Moreover, buyers also have confidence in the garment industry of Bangladesh. With the concerted efforts of the BGMEA Board, under the guidance of the government, a joint force has been formed under the leadership of the army for the security of the garment factories and the joint force has regularly conducted patrols to ensure the security of garment-dominated areas. BGMEA has introduced community policing in collaboration with the army.

He also said that since there was uncertainty in the payment of August salaries in the garment factories, a letter was sent to the Finance Advisor seeking cooperation from BGMEA in this regard. BGMEA Board also met the Governor of Bangladesh Bank. Then, following the request of BGMEA, Bangladesh Bank directed the banks to pay the salary for the month of August.

The BGMEA president said that workers of 39 garment factories affected by Ashulia were unable to pay their salaries for the month of September due to labor unrest. BGMEA has requested the Ministry of Finance to provide interest-free loans to 39 garment factories for the purpose of paying salaries and allowances for the month of September.

Other leaders and members of the board were also present at this time.