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Foreign employees in readymade garments sector

July 21, 2019 00:00:00


A survey by Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) shows that only 177 foreign expatriates are working in the readymade garments (RMG) sector. But the actual figure should be much higher. It is an open secret that many foreign nationals are working without work permit and job visa in this sector of Bangladesh.

I am not against them working here. In fact, expert foreign workers are helping our RMG industry as they are training local employees. They are welcome but they should also abide by the law of this country.

Foreigners working in different sectors remit nearly US $ 2.0 billion every year. According to a Home Ministry report, 85,000 plus foreign nationals are working in the country. As Bangladesh is growing economically and the industries need better technical knowledge and skills, this number is likely to grow further in the near future.

The government should make easier the procedure for application for work permits so that the companies and foreign nationals are not harassed and they feel encouraged to seek work permits.

Rahmatullah Sumon

Badda, Dhaka


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