BGMEA cannot order for factory closure

The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) on Sunday said that it has no authority to close any apparel factory. 

Only the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments possessed the authority, BGMEA said in a statement. 

The apparel organisation explained their position today after thousands of garment workers scrambled to reach their work places in Dhaka and adjoining areas, raising risks of coronavirus infection. 

On March 21, a formal meeting was held among the factory owners when many of them ensured that they would maintain highest precautions against coronavirus.

Even then, BGMEA went ahead and recommended for factory closure on March 26.

Moreover, BGMEA made no announcement regarding the reopening of garment factories. 

BGMEA yesterday recommended for keeping the factories closed once again, reiterating that it did not change its position regarding the factories shutdown.