The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) convened a crucial meeting with a visiting delegation from the United States Trade Representative (USTR) recently, aiming to secure support and cooperation from the US government.

The primary agenda of the meeting was to advocate for the establishment of a fair minimum price for apparels and the implementation of a unified code of conduct for social audits within the industry.

During the meeting, the BGMEA emphasised the importance of reinstating the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) in favour of Bangladesh and urged the inclusion of garment items in the US GSP programme.

Conversations between the USTR delegation and BGMEA representatives delved into the intricacies of a labour action plan proposed by the US government. Specifically, discussions centred on the necessary amendments to the Bangladesh Labour Act to streamline the trade union registration process and address instances of unfair labour practices.

Led by Assistant USTR for South and Central Asia Brendan Lynch, the US delegation engaged in discussions on bilateral trade policies, workers' rights, well-being, and market access.

BGMEA president SM Mannan Kochi spearheaded the discussion from the association’s side, supported by senior officials.

The BGMEA chair provided updates on advancements in workplace safety, workers’ rights, and ongoing labour law reforms within Bangladesh’s readymade garment (RMG) industry even as he reiterated both the government’s and the industry’s commitment to advancing workers’ rights and welfare.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DR)

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