Ethical Trading Initiative Bangladesh organised a consultation workshop on 27 August 2025. The workshop gathered 27 youth and women leaders (11 men and 16 women) from trade union federations. Leaders discussed results from a study on the implementation of the Minimum Wage 2023 and effects on ready-made garment (RMG) workers.
Workshop objectives included sharing findings from the study, examining compliance with the minimum wage in the RMG sector, and identifying challenges. Participants explored ways to enhance the wage system in Bangladesh’s RMG industry.
Munir Uddin Shamim, Director of Programme, Evidence & Learning at Ethical Trading Initiative Bangladesh, presented findings to participants. The study indicated that 68% of factories implemented the minimum wage. Factories in export processing zones (EPZs) complied, while factories outside EPZs delayed compliance. STITCH, an organisation that addresses working conditions, conducted the study with BRAC University from September to December 2024.
Md. Shahinur Rahman, Consultant for Mondiaal FNV Bangladesh, facilitated a discussion on roles of youth and women leaders. Participants examined points from the study and identified changes. They considered support for trade unions, including training, skills, and resources.
The workshop supported leadership of youth and women in the RMG sector. Leaders participated in policy development and labour practices. Participants committed to advocating for wages and working conditions. They recommended research to identify gaps and generate data for negotiations. They proposed formation of research teams on labour rights and inclusion of youth and women as researchers.
