Amid persistent worker protests in the garment sector, more than 50 factories have been indefinitely closed, with many others shutting down daily.
The interim government has said foreign buyers have cancelled clothing orders between 15 and 20 per cent.
Labour Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain disclosed the figures during a press briefing following a meeting of the advisory council in Dhaka on Thursday.
He said, "We are seeing businessmen of some specific countries lobbying hard to secure orders. We have also been dealing with various issues, including recent discontent in Gazipur and Ashulia due to wage payment problems at a major company."
The government has intervened, with Finance Advisor Salehuddin Ahmed arranging a loan of Tk 7.9 billion to address wage issues for nearly 40,000 workers, partially easing the discontent.
The labour unrest began after the fall of the Awami League government on Aug 5, with sectors, including the garment and pharmaceutical industries, experiencing prolonged protests. Specific demands from garment workers vary by factory, leading to widespread disruptions.
Recent incidents include the arrest of a youth from Netrokona, initially reported as a student leader but later identified as a BNP supporter, and protests leading to fires at factories in Gazipur.
Asif said a review committee, including labour leaders and legal experts, has been formed to address the issues. He urged workers to bring their grievances to the committee for resolution.
The labour and employment secretary said foreign conspiracies might be behind the unrest, noting that some foreign businesses are lobbying intensely for orders. He emphasised that attacks on factories ultimately harm workers the most.
The government remains committed to addressing genuine worker demands and external instigations, pledging prompt action to restore order and resolve issues affecting the garment sector. —bdnews24.com
