In a meeting with Muhammad Yunus, Interim Government Leader and BGMEA members, a US delegation comprising government officials, brand representatives, and civil society leaders emphasised on their shared commitment to foster independent, democratic trade unions for Bangladeshi workers and the businesses employing them.
Led by Kelly M. Fay Rodríguez, Special Representative, State Department and Thea Lee, Deputy Undersecretary, Department of Labor, the delegation included representatives from USAID, UNI Global Union, the Worker Rights Consortium, and executives from brands such as Gap Inc., PVH Corp (owner of Calvin Klein), and VF Corp (parent company of The North Face). Together, these companies purchase approximately $1.8 billion in apparel annually from Bangladesh, the third-largest garment supplier to the U.S.
The discussions emphasised on the importance of resolving labor rights challenges to sustain economic growth. The US delegation highlighted the importance of empowering workers through better rights, including freedom of association and collective bargaining for economic stability, human rights, and gender equity.
The delegation also addressed pressing issues with the BGMEA, including ongoing worker unrest over unpaid wages and delays in production caused by recent political instability and extreme weather. Amid these challenges, Bangladesh’s government formed a committee to assess labor and business conditions at the Beximco Industrial Park, a major textile hub facing financial strain. The Ministry of Labor and Employment has pledged to help settle outstanding arrears with assistance from the Finance Ministry. One of Bangladesh’s largest employers serving clients like PVH Corp, Target, and Inditex (owner of Zara), Beximco has been grappling with a liquidity crisis and legal troubles tied to one of its co-founders.
Despite these difficulties, the US Embassy expressed optimism about Bangladesh's resilience and a potential for collaboration to improve industry practices. According to the embassy, the United States is committed to working with Bangladesh to ensure stable employment, quality working conditions, and living wages that allow workers and their families to thrive.
Reinforcing the importance of maintaining a strong, competitive and socially responsible garment industry in Bangladesh, Steve Lamar, President and CEO, American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA), emphasised on the need for an open dialogue and responsible purchasing practices to address rising manufacturing costs and ensure fair margins for suppliers.
