The New Nation - Internet Edition

POSITIVE trends are noted in the export-oriented textile sector notwithstanding the many hurdles it had to confront and overcome in recent years. But the positive trends in the export of textile products will have to be consolidated and further improved upon with relentless efforts that have characterised entrepreneurial rearguard actions in recent years not to allow prospects of this burgeoning sector to be diminished.

The entrepreneurs have been proactive and taken initiatives to retain the competitiveness of their industries by replacing outdated machinery, restructuring of production systems, training and retraining of workers and many other measures. But these tasks have not been comprehensively completed throughout the sector and should be carried out within a short time-frame. The owners of the textile industries also should put the greatest stress on improving relations with workers. Implementing the enhanced minimum wages, monetary benefits, timely payment of salary and wages, plus improvement of working conditions, need to be concluded within a timeframe. These measures will help quell growing signs of labour trouble in these industries. The troubles pose both long and short-term serious threats to the sector.

Besides, overseas buyers of apparel are increasingly linking their imports from Bangladesh with the industries here complying with their expected standards of treatment of the workers. Thus, the textile industry's owners and operators will have to give very focused attention to this area both for the smooth functioning of their units and to keep the buyers dedicated to buying from Bangladesh.

The government should promote the industry through fiscal and monetary policies. Infrastructural facilities should be strengthened to help achievement of greater competitiveness for the textile sector.