RMG labour leaders say increment not good enough, owners cite challenges in implementation
Labour leaders, however, said it will provide some relief to the RMG workers
The 4% additional annual salary increment is not enough for RMG workers considering rising costs and inflation, labour leaders said today (9 December).
However, they welcomed the government's move and said it will bring some relief for the workers.
Rafiqul Islam Sujan, president of the Bangladesh Garments and Industrial Workers Federation, told The Business Standard, "While the increase provides some relief to workers, it is insufficient given the rising commodity prices and inflation."
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
He emphasised that a 15% increase would have been more appropriate given the current economic climate.
Aurobindo Bepari Bindu, president of the Bilabli Garments Workers Federation, commended the government and owners for their decision, which he deemed as a timely recognition of the workers' plight.
While acknowledging the gap between the workers' demand and the proposed increase, he urged workers to accept the decision in light of the prevailing circumstances.
He expressed optimism that the government and owners would remain responsive to workers' needs in the future, particularly in the face of potential economic challenges.
Meanwhile, Sammilito Garments Sramik Federation President Nazma Akter said the proposed increment is insufficient to meet workers' basic needs.
She expressed concerns about the process leading to the demand for a 15% annual increment, questioning how labour representatives could make such a demand without consulting relevant labour organisations.
She further alleged a lack of communication from government officials regarding the matter.
"We urge the government to implement an increment that accounts for inflation, enabling workers to meet their basic needs and maintain proper nutrition. This will not only improve their well-being but also boost productivity," she added.
Owners wary of increment implementation
A leading apparel exporter, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed concerns about the industry's challenges.
"We feel trapped after investing heavily in this sector, especially as the previous government increased utility costs significantly," he said.
He feared that many factories might struggle to implement further increases in the wage increment rate, especially after the recent major wage adjustments.
"The government should conduct a comprehensive survey to assess the industry's capacity and the workers' needs," he suggested.
Highlighting the industry's ongoing struggles with the unreliable supply of quality energy, he said, "On top of that, the reduction in cash incentives has put exporters in an even tighter corner."
