DHAKA: The US-based readymade garments (RMG) buyers’ organization ‘Alliance’ wants to see more improvement in Bangladesh RMG factories to get Generalized System of Preference (GSP) in the US.

Alliance executive director James F Moriarty came to this assertion after the meeting with commerce minister Tofail Ahmed in his ministry Thursday afternoon.

They also talked about labors’ security and their employment.

While asked about their negative activities in Bangladesh, the executive director said they just want justice for the garments workers.

Tofail Ahmed claimed that the visit of Alliance official indicated positive nods and they are helping us get the GSP.

According to him, Bangladesh has also achieved the trust of international buyers.

However, the collapse of Rana Plaza was a ‘wake up call’ for Bangladesh that created awareness among people. At least 32 risky factories had been shut and proper measures were taken for 35 less risky factory houses.

The minister also claimed that the workers’ salaries have been increased 219 percent and the minimum salary has been announced Tk 7,500.

The working environment has been improved and the American representatives can talk with the workers to know about their current situation.

He further said that the government has fulfilled the main condition for the EPZ to form Workers Welfare Association (WWA). Workers, owners and government are happy with this, he added.

The minister also said US-Bangladesh Trade and Investment Forum Agreement (TICFA) meeting will be held in November.

Alliance for Bangladesh Worker Safety’s US office senior adviser Mara M Bhat, Bangladesh office senior adviser Yan Spalding, vice-president and also managing director Mezbah Robin were also present during the meeting with the commerce minister.

BDST: 2145 HRS, SEPT 03, 2015
BD/RR