Dhaka: Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) President Mahmud Hasan Khan has urged the government to maintain a business-friendly environment to sustain competitiveness and ensure a smooth transition from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category. “The most urgent priorities now are creating a business-friendly environment, resolving the gas crisis, simplifying customs procedures, ensuring access to low-cost financing, and improving logistics,” Mahmud stated during an emergency press conference held at the BGMEA Complex in the capital.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Mahmud Hasan Khan emphasized the need for the government to reconsider decisions on the recently approved Bangladesh Labour (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025, and the increase in Chattogram Port charges, arguing these could negatively impact the country’s production-oriented industries. He highlighted concerns that allowing participation in both the Provident Fund and the universal pension scheme “Progoti” under the new labour law would create administrative complexities, increase costs, and cause disorder in fund management. Furthermore, the inclusion of officers and employees in the definition of “workers” could lead to confusion in company management and disrupt decision-making processes.
Mahmud pointed out that competitor countries have already adopted investment-friendly policies through reforms in technology and labour laws. He noted that high bank interest rates, rising wages, increased fuel costs, reduced incentives, and higher port charges have elevated operating costs. “In this situation, if LDC graduation proceeds as scheduled, we will lose competitiveness,” he warned.
The BGMEA President urged the government to defer Bangladesh’s LDC graduation by at least three years to ensure adequate preparations are completed. He also called upon the Chief Adviser of the Interim Government, Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, and his Advisory Council to take prompt and effective measures, considering the real needs of the industry and the global context, to build a stable and competitive economy for future generations. Representatives from various federations and trade bodies were present at the press conference.