Bangladesh’s garment manufacturers are calling on brands, retailers, and buyers to consider increasing or adjusting apparel prices to accommodate the recently announced wages for industry workers.
Faruque Hassan, the president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), conveyed this request in a letter to representatives, emphasising the need for uninterrupted and smoother industry operations.
In the communication, Hassan stressed the importance of adjusting or increasing the prices of all goods scheduled for shipment from 1st December 2023, to cover the incremental wage component.
The Government recently declared new minimum wages for garment workers following extensive consultations and agreements among stakeholders, including worker and employer representatives.
According to the new minimum wage structure, the gross wages for entry-level workers were set at Taka12,500, reflecting a 56.25 per cent increase from the existing gross wage.
The raise in the minimum wage also translates to increased benefits for workers, including enhanced overtime benefits, earned leave encashment, festival bonuses, and other allowances, as highlighted by the BGMEA president.
Bharat Tex Special Report 2026 
