Dhaka: Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed announced plans to set or revise the minimum wage for 15 additional industrial sectors over the next three fiscal years. This initiative aims to align with the changing economic conditions and address the requirements of the workforce.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Salehuddin stated that the annual increment rate of wages in the industrial sector will be increased from 5 to 9 percent starting December 2024, in response to the ongoing high inflation. This announcement was made during the presentation of the proposed national budget for FY26, delivered through a pre-recorded speech aired on Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar.
Dr. Salehuddin emphasized that the government is committed to the welfare of existing workers while also focusing on creating new employment opportunities. To maintain productivity and address labor unrest in the industrial sector, approximately Tk 651.37 crore has been disbursed to various industries since August 5, 2024.
He also mentioned the establishment of a platform for coordinating employment opportunities and information dissemination. Furthermore, an arbitrator panel is set to be appointed, and its activities will align with the recommendations of the International Labour Organization (ILO) to enhance labor standards.
To ensure strategic and intensive compliance, there will be mapping of factories, institutions, and shops in labor-intensive areas. Additionally, training and pilot programs are planned to modernize the Readymade Garment (RMG) sector in line with the needs of the fourth industrial revolution.