IT is a matter of great concern that around 600 garment factories have been shut down during the last three years and another 300 factories are on their way to be closed down. The readymade garment sector is going through a difficult phase due to shortage of gas and electricity. Political uncertainty in the country is also harming the image of our country in the outside world. The RMG sector is our main foreign exchange earner and playing a key role in keeping our economy vibrant. Therefore, the sector should be extended all kinds of help and support so that it is able to sustain its growth and develop further. The RMG sector started its journey modestly. In 1980, we had only about 50 factories which employed a few thousand people only. In stark contrast, we now have over 5000 factories employing around 4.0 million people, mostly women. A large number of Bangladeshi women have found their economic freedom through the RMG sector. The RMG sector has given them a voice of their own. I hope the government will take all possible steps to enable the RMG sector to flourish further as it has a great future and can contribute immensely improve the lot of our people.
