More than 100,000 garment workers in Bangladesh lost their jobs over the past year following the closure of at least 258 factories, according to a new survey by the Asia Floor Wage Alliance (AFWA). The findings highlight growing social and economic risks in the country’s apparel sector amid mounting pressures from technological change, climate impacts and fragile labour conditions.
The survey results were presented on Sunday at a discussion held at the National Press Club in Dhaka, titled Actions Needed Amidst Technological Transition, Climate Change and Existing Labour Conditions. The data were shared by Amrin Hossain Annie, Gender Officer at Bangladesh Nari Progati Sangha.
Speakers at the event said the garment industry is entering an increasingly complex and uncertain phase, shaped by the combined effects of automation, climate vulnerability and long-standing workplace challenges. They called for a coordinated national roadmap that integrates technological adaptation, climate resilience and the protection of labour rights to stabilise the sector.
Annie said there remains a significant gap between workers’ wages and the overall profitability of the apparel industry. Despite Bangladesh’s critical role in global supply chains, wages have yet to reach a decent standard, with workers continuing to shoulder the cost of production and global competitiveness, limiting improvements in their living standards.
She also highlighted gender-related concerns, noting that women account for more than 60 per cent of the sector’s nearly four million workers. While female employment has contributed to economic growth, women continue to face limited access to safe employment, gender-sensitive workplaces and participation in decision-making processes.
The sector’s instability has been compounded by political uncertainty, weakening buyer confidence, intensifying export market competition, energy and power shortages and the broader global economic slowdown, speakers said.
Economist Professor MM Akash stressed the need for coordinated policy action, including the introduction and enforcement of a living and humane national minimum wage. He also called for expanded training facilities, rationing systems and the right to form trade unions across all industries, arguing that no worker’s wage should fall below the poverty line. He urged labour organisations to unite under a common platform to strengthen worker solidarity.
Labour leader Abul Hossain said resolving the industry’s challenges would require the involvement of all stakeholders, including workers, factory owners and the government. He underscored the need to ensure safe and healthy working conditions, alongside addressing low wages and persistent wage discrimination in the sector.
