Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen expressed apprehension regarding potential repercussions on Bangladesh’s vital garment industry if it encounters any restrictions from the US related to labour rights issues.
Media reports underlined this adding during a seminar in Dhaka titled Global Economic Slowdown, Bangladesh’s Apparel Industry, and Decent Work, organised by the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIIS), Momen emphasised that adverse effects could extend beyond the US, impacting raw material sourcing and exports to other countries.
He cautioned that the progress made in enhancing worker conditions in Bangladesh might be hindered by such restrictions.
The seminar was presided over by BIIS Chairman AFM Gousal Azam Sarker, with BIIS Director General Md Abu Bakar Siddique Khan delivering the welcome address.
The US memorandum, signed by President Biden on 16th November 2023, pledges a commitment to global worker empowerment and high labour standards.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned of potential sanctions, trade embargoes, and visa bans for those violating labour rights or harming activists.
In response, the Bangladesh Embassy in Washington expressed concerns in a letter to the commerce secretary, interpreting the memorandum as a “signal” of potential action against Bangladesh.
Momen urged stakeholders, including entrepreneurs, buyers, development partners, and importing countries, to collaborate in overcoming challenges and ensuring the sustainability and well-being of the industry.