Following a meeting with Interim Government Finance Advisor Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed at the Economic Relations Department (ERD) office in Agargaon today (August 27), BGMEA President Khandaker Rafiqul Islam told reporters, “We have asked the interim government for the soft loan just for the ready-made garment sector.”
He added that there had been at least 16–17 days without production throughout the previous 45 days. For the past four to five days, exports have been suspended as a result of the continuous flood. “There are numerous reasons why we have requested a loan for this industry. We requested a soft loan amount that is equal to one month’s salary for every worker in this industry. Within a year, we will repay this money with interest,” he continued.
“There were also some other minor issues,” he added. We can move the nation forward by cooperating with this administration, he [the finance adviser] informed us. In addition, we had another problem: the loan was originally set up to be categorized as in arrears if we missed six installments; however, this was then adjusted to three, and we requested that it be set at six once more. When things go back to normal, the government may once more divide it into three payments.”
Khandaker Rafiqul Islam added, “We hope that our economy will turn around and if we all cooperate, the confidence of foreign buyers will be strengthened.” in reference to the sector’s future. We think that a lot more companies are going to relocate to Bangladesh.”
