The government has announced plans to disburse the outstanding salaries of all 27,000 workers from the recently closed Beximco factories this month, in light of the approaching Ramadan. Labour and Employment Adviser Brigadier General (retd) M Sakhawat Hossain made the announcement on Wednesday.
A final decision regarding the settlement process, including the total amount owed and the sources of funding, will be made during a meeting scheduled for 18th February. Sakhawat indicated that efforts are also underway to facilitate the reintegration of these workers into the national workforce.
Speaking to reporters after a meeting focused on the current state of Beximco industries, Sakhawat mentioned that a newly appointed administrator of Beximco Group is currently assessing the exact amount of dues owed to the employees. The managing directors of the banks involved are expected to participate in the 18th February meeting to discuss potential funding sources.
Once the necessary funds are secured, payments will be made directly to the bank accounts of the affected employees. “Each worker will receive what they are owed, but the total amount is still being determined,” Sakhawat stated, adding that the new administrator, who assumed office on 5th February, has been tasked with completing this process by the meeting date.
Sakhawat explained that several funding options are being considered, including potential assistance from the Finance Division or proceeds from share sales, contingent upon the resolution of existing complications.
Addressing concerns regarding the future employment of the workers, the adviser expressed optimism that they would not remain unemployed for an extended period. “There is currently a 5 per cent to 7 per cent workforce shortage in the garment sector. We cannot allow such a large number of skilled workers to remain jobless,” he emphasised.
Efforts are actively being made to identify alternative employment opportunities for the affected workers, with involvement from the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) and Export Processing Zones (EPZs).
