Bangladesh has enacted a major overhaul of its labour legislation at a moment when global buyers, development partners and labour-rights monitors are closely evaluating the country’s compliance record. The government on 17th November formally gazetted the Bangladesh Labour (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025, introducing significant changes to the Bangladesh Labour Act, 2006.
The ordinance was issued under Article 93(1) of the Constitution, which empowers the President to enact laws when Parliament is dissolved and urgent regulatory action is needed. The Advisory Council had cleared the amended draft on 23rd October before its final publication.
The reforms seek to modernise Bangladesh’s labour-governance framework, align domestic standards with evolving international norms and strike a more equitable balance between workers’ rights and employers’ responsibilities. Officials say the amendments are specifically designed to strengthen compliance with key International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions—an area where Bangladesh faces rising pressure from international stakeholders.
Law Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul noted that the changes aim to bring the country’s labour code closer to global benchmarks, particularly on freedom of association, collective bargaining, workplace safety and dispute resolution. The European Union, North America and other major export destinations are tightening labour-related conditions through sustainability-linked trade mechanisms, making these reforms increasingly decisive.
Industry analysts argue that the revised labour regime will play a critical role in safeguarding Bangladesh’s export competitiveness. With the ready-made garment and textile sectors accounting for over 85% of national export earnings, enhanced labour governance is viewed as essential to maintaining buyer confidence.
Trade experts also link the updated legislation to Bangladesh’s future access to preferential trade schemes such as the EU’s GSP+, ongoing US market considerations and broader global commitments on decent work. Many see the ordinance as a strategic signal that Bangladesh intends to reinforce long-term industrial resilience while meeting the rising compliance demands of international supply chains.
