Dhaka:Representatives of garment factory owners and workers have agreed to implement a new minimum wage structure for readymade garment (RMG) workers starting December 1. The increased wages are scheduled to be paid in January, alongside the salaries for December.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the decision was announced following the first meeting of the eighth Minimum Wage Board for RMG workers held at the board's office in Segunbagicha, Dhaka. Worker representative and Bangladesh Garments and Industrial Workers Federation General Secretary Babul Akhter confirmed that both sides reached a consensus on implementing the new wage structure and paying the revised wages in January. There was no disagreement reported between the two sides on this matter.
The workers' representatives have proposed completing the process of determining the new wage structure within December and will submit their written proposal at the next meeting. Babul Akhter called on all workers' organizations to collaborate on formulating a reasonable wage proposal to present before the board.
Employer representative and Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) Director A B M Shamsuddin also confirmed the consensus on completing the wage determination process within December. Discussions were reportedly conducted in a cordial manner, with both sides agreeing to expedite the process to ensure workers receive the increased wages with their January payment.
The meeting was chaired by Minimum Wage Board Chairman Syed Azad Subhani, who stated that the government formed the new wage board for the RMG sector on November 1. The first meeting convened within three days of its formation, allowing the wage determination process to begin promptly. The meeting focused on introducing board members and discussing legal procedures and necessary steps for determining the minimum wage.
Representatives of both employers and workers shared their experiences and views during the meeting. Chairman Syed Azad Subhani expressed hope that both sides would submit their written proposals at the next meeting, which is planned for the following week. He mentioned that a six-month timeframe is usually allocated for determining minimum wages in an industrial sector, but expressed optimism that the recommendations could be prepared and submitted within the stipulated timeframe.
Workers' representatives also raised concerns beyond wages, such as the implementation of labor laws, trade union rights, and workplace benefits. They urged the government to address these issues gradually. Babul Akhter emphasized the importance of ensuring workers' rights and facilities in addition to determining the minimum wage.
He called upon the authorities to refrain from harassing labor leaders, ensure the release of arrested workers and labor leaders, and prevent any form of abuse against them. He also urged workers to maintain normal production activities in factories, emphasizing dialogue over protests for resolving grievances.
The government formed a six-member Minimum Wage Board on November 1 to determine new minimum wages for RMG workers amidst labor unrest in several industrial areas over demands for higher wages. The board is tasked with making recommendations on minimum wages through consultations with representatives of employers, workers, and neutral members.