Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi yesterday on 3 February urged International Labor Organization (ILO) to play a role to secure fair pricing of Bangladesh’s apparel items – the country’s biggest export earner worth around US$33 billion.
Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi sought the assistance while meeting ILO’s Country Director Tuomo Poutiainen at his ministry office regarding the apparel industry, said a press release of the ministry and the government press-note.
“Bangladesh’s workers are now working in a safe and friendly workplace; getting fair prices for their labor. There has been a major overhaul on establishing their rights due to a cordial approach of the government and the factory owners,” Tipu Munshi highlighted to the ILO official.
Bangladesh will be greatly benefited if ILO plays a part in pursuing a fair increase in the prices from buyers
There’s been major reform in the industry, changes to the Labor Act. The factory owners have spent a lot on structural reforms. Production costs have risen after the new wage board for workers. But in comparison, the buyers have not increased their prices, he pointed out.
“Bangladesh will be greatly benefited if ILO plays a part in pursuing a fair increase in the prices from buyers,” Tipu Munshi emphasized.
In response, ILO Country Director Poutiainen assured that his institution’s support towards Bangladesh will continue in the future.
He also assured ILO’s support and technical assistance if a coordinated effort is drawn up with BGMEA and BKMEA to negotiate.
Commerce Minister also highlighted, “National Initiative, Accord, and Alliance are working for long to ensure structural compliance in the apparel industry. Therefore, the Remediation Coordination Cell (RCC) can carry out its duties and responsibilities with capacity.”
