The Bangladesh apparel sector will not require assistances from buyers’ platforms, Accord and Alliance after this year, says Commerce Minister Tofail Ahmed.
“There’s no use of Accord and Alliance in this country after Dec 31 ... We are now a developing nation, but we will enjoy the facilities of least developed countries until,” he said on Thursday.
Speaking to the media at his offices after a meeting with representatives from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), he said that the buyer’s platforms terms will not be extended any more.
“They will get six months to close their shops,” said Tofail.
European retailers’ platform, Accord’s terms ended on Thursday while Alliance, platform of North American brands, expires in July.
Wages and allowances of apparel workers will have to be cleared on time, said the minister before adding, “Salaries for May have to be paid by the 10th and bonuses by 14th.”
Tofail warned factory owners that no job cuts can happen before the Eid.
“Each and every worker will be able to celebrate the Eid this year amid festivity. Garments account for 82 percent of Bangladesh’s exports and the sector has seen 9.37 percent growth this year. We hope to achieve the target of $30 billion of export this year,” said the commerce minister.