Most Bangladesh's export-oriented readymade garment (RMG) manufacturers kept their factories operational during the lockdown to keep its economy alive. The Bangladesh apparel industry contributes 83 per cent to the country’s total exports. During the first wave of the pandemic in 2020, apparel exports plunged over 25 per cent. Closing factories leads to loss of work orders, crucial to get the economy back on tracks, says Faruque Hasan, President, BGMEA.

The condition of buyers was also not good during the first wave of the pandemic. They either cancelled orders or reduced their sizes. This not only affects the revenue stream, but also puts a negative impact on loan repayments, adds Vidiya Amrit Khan, Director, BGMEA, and Deputy Managing Director, Desh Garments.

Anwar-Ul-Alam Chowdhury Parvez, Former President, BGMEA and President, Bangladesh Chamber of Industries (BCI) says for workers' wellbeing, as well as for the sake of the economy, apparel factories need to remain open. He advised the government to strictly ensure hygiene norms everywhere. The government also needs to monitor adherence to health directives in factories.