Govt to aid struggling factories through revival fund

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman meets leaders of BGMEA and BKMEA at the prime minister’s office in the Secretariat today (11 May).

The government has decided to extend financial support not only to closed industrial units but also to factories struggling to continue operations through a revival fund being formed by Bangladesh Bank.

The assurance came during a meeting held at the Prime Minister’s Office at the Secretariat on Sunday, where leaders of the country’s two leading garment trade bodies — Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association and Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association — raised concerns over challenges facing the export-oriented apparel sector.

Business leaders urged the government to provide policy support to boost investment, sustain factory operations, and expand exports. They also criticised several policies of the central bank that they believe are hindering business growth.

During the discussion, the prime minister asked the business leaders to submit detailed written proposals outlining the policy measures needed to improve the investment climate and ease business operations. He assured them that the government would consider implementing the recommendations after formal submission.

Leaders of the apparel sector said another meeting with garment industry representatives is expected to take place after Eid-ul-Adha to continue discussions on sector-related issues.

The meeting also focused on export diversification initiatives. The government informed business leaders about plans to hand over state-owned silk factories in Rajshahi to the private sector as part of efforts to revive the industry and attract investment.