All garment factories to reopen today: BGMEA

 
All closed garment factories will resume operations from today following assurances of security from law enforcement agencies. Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) President  Khandaker  Rafiqul Islam came up with the announcement on Wednesday  at a press briefing.

He said that the decision came after discussions with garment factory owners, army, police, industrial police, and various intelligence agencies on Wednesday.

He further mentioned that the army, industrial police, and intelligence agencies will take a strict stance to ensure security, allowing factories to reopen.
The BGMEA noted that 167 garment factories had been closed during the recent labour movement. Although the workers themselves were not involved, attacks by outsiders created significant disruption. With the army and law enforcement guaranteeing the safety of the factories, the owners have decided to resume operations.

On Wednesday afternoon, RMG workers agitated in Savar, Ashulia and other places. The nature of the movement was unclear since no specific demands were being raised. Bangladesh is the second-largest exporter of RMG products after China. This sector suffered billions of takas in losses during the recent student-led movement that toppled Sheikh Hasina's government on August 5. The unrest comes as the sector is trying to turn around.