Apparel Exports to EU Plummet by 26.74%

The Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA) has requested the government to allow the import of recycled plastics and textile waste with a 5% specific duty and to support non-cotton garment manufacturing.

A group of labour leaders has urged the government to establish an emergency fund to provide financial benefits to laid-off workers in the garment sector. The demand was made during a meeting with the Labour Reform Commission, following the recent termination of over 40,000 workers at 16 Beximco Group factories.

Automation has reduced the need for human labor in Bangladesh's garment sector by nearly 31%, primarily affecting helpers. Sweater factories saw a 37% reduction, while woven factories saw a 27% reduction per production line.

The European Union's garment imports from Bangladesh grew by 1.43% from January to October 2024, despite a 4.92% decline in prices. Unit prices for most suppliers decreased in 2024 compared to 2023 due to competitive pressures.

The government has increased the annual increment for garment workers from 5 percent to 9 percent, effective December 1, as per a circular from the labour and employment ministry. Workers will receive the revised increment in January.