Amidst recent political unrest and labor concerns, nine global organizations representing over 3,000 fashion brands and retailers have made a united appeal to international buyers: Keep sourcing from Bangladesh. In a joint statement, these organizations, whose members include industry giants like H&M, Inditex, and C&A, have called for buyers to avoid cancelling orders or penalizing delayed shipments from Bangladesh. The appeal emphasizes the need for stable partnerships, ethical sourcing practices, and labor rights safeguards as the nation navigates a period of significant transition.

Business at stake

The Bangladeshi garment industry, a strong pillar of the economy, has already experienced significant losses amidst the recent protests and political upheaval. Factory closures in the lead-up to the government-mandated holiday on August 7 resulted in an estimated loss of $150 million per day. The organizations' statement highlights the importance of ongoing orders to prevent further economic damage and protect the livelihoods of millions of workers.

As per some estimate, Bangladeshi garment industry has suffered losses over $1 billion due to recent events. While some factories have resumed operations, uncertainties persist regarding the overall impact on the sector. The statement's emphasis on avoiding order cancellations and penalties reflects the urgent need to stabilize the industry and protect workers' incomes.

Call for ethical sourcing

The joint statement goes beyond simply urging continued sourcing. It stresses the importance of responsible purchasing practices, transparency, and collaboration with suppliers. It also calls for a focus on labor rights and safety to mitigate the adverse effects of the recent protests. This underscores the growing emphasis on ethical sourcing within the global fashion industry and the need for brands to uphold their commitments even in challenging circumstances.

The situation in Bangladesh remains fluid, but the collective voice of global organizations offers a glimmer of hope for the nation's garment industry. The appeal for continued sourcing, paired with the emphasis on ethical practices and labor rights, highlights a potential path forward. It's a call for solidarity, resilience, and responsible business practices that benefit both brands and workers alike.