Criticizing global buyers and brands, leaders of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) alleged they fail to raise product prices despite significant wage hikes and expensive new initiatives to improve workplace safety and compliance.
At a press conference held in the association’s headquarters, Md Atiqul Islam, President, BGMEA noted, while global buyers push for higher wages, they refuse to increase prices and are even canceling orders from factories located in shared or rented buildings.
The press briefing was held to announce steps taken to commemorate the first anniversary of the tragic Rana Plaza building collapse, which killed at least 1,135 garment workers. The BGMEA highlighted ongoing industry developments, including the registration of 150 trade unions over the past year, compared to just 38 in the previous eight years.
Islam urgently requested global brands to create a dedicated fund for the Rana Plaza victims and their families, moving beyond verbal assurances. He also called for the speedy disbursement oft/he existing ILO $40 million trust fund.
Islam labeled the buyers' practice of pulling orders from factories in shared buildings as ‘inhuman,’ pointing out that approximately 40 per cent of factories are located in shared or rented buildings, employing about 1.5 million workers.
He pleaded with buyers to reconsider withdrawing orders, assuring them apparel makers are committed to preventing another tragedy. Out of 700 factories assessed under the Accord, the Alliance, and the government-led initiatives, only 13 factories across four buildings had production suspended due to structural faults, demonstrating that not all shared buildings are unsafe.
Along with other textile groups, BGMEA plans to organize a series of events on April 24, including a rally and prayer programs for the deceased workers.
