When Bangladesh graduates out of LDC status by 2024, its exports will lose duty-free and quota-free access to world markets.

But Bangladesh will have duty-free and quota-free access to the EU market till 2027.

To get the GSP Plus facilities, the country will have to ensure good labor standards and an environment in line with the requirements of the core labor standard of the International Labor Organisation.

Pakistan and Sri Lanka enjoy GSP Plus facilities in the EU market. Bangladesh has improved labor safety and standards. Child labor is being weeded from hazardous jobs.

The country’s readymade garment sector improved labor safety significantly after the Rana Plaza tragedy.

Labor laws are being made worker-friendly. The country is now very proactive, candid and open in terms of having discussions over labor issues.

A well-coordinated approach will be taken to address emerging labor standards under the Sustainable Development Goals framework. in Bangladesh.

Safety in the workplace has become a major priority in Bangladesh. A training program has been launched for some eight lakh readymade garment workers. This training is expected to contribute greatly to that goal as both workers and employers will benefit from improved safety practices.

In Bangladesh the readymade garment industry accounts for 80 per cent of exports.