In a significant meeting in Dhaka, a delegation from the Bureau of International Labor Affairs of the US Department of Labor convened with the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) to discuss crucial issues surrounding workers’ rights in the ready-made garment (RMG) sector.
The discussions highlighted the importance of workplace safety, labour law reforms, and market access, with a specific focus on enhancing workers’ rights. BGMEA Administrator Anwar Hossain informed the US delegation about the considerable advancements made by the RMG industry, particularly regarding workplace safety and labor rights over recent years.
Members of the BGMEA Support Committee underscored ongoing government and industry initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of workers in the sector. While the US delegation acknowledged the progress made, they emphasised the need for further improvements, particularly calling for amendments to the Bangladesh Labor Act (BLA).
The meeting served as a platform to reinforce the importance of ongoing collaboration between Bangladesh, the US government, and industry stakeholders to foster a more sustainable and equitable RMG sector.
The delegation included prominent figures such as Kelly M Fay Rodríguez, special representative for international labor affairs; Thea Lee, deputy undersecretary for international affairs; and Anne M Zollner, chief of the Office of Trade and Labor Affairs. Additionally, representatives from various global fashion brands, including GAP Inc, PVH Corp, and VF Corporation, joined the discussion.
On the BGMEA side, Administrator Anwar Hossain led the meeting together with members of the Support Committee and other industry leaders.
