Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Moktadir on Tuesday underscored the urgent need to bring all workers under formal economic structures, saying a large segment of Bangladesh’s labour force still remains outside the formal system.
He made the remarks at the 94th meeting of the Tripartite Consultative Council (TCC) and the 22nd RMG-focused TCC meeting held at the CIRDAP auditorium on Tuesday .
The minister noted that although the ready-made garment (RMG) sector has successfully formalised a significant number of workers, the broader labour force is still largely informal. This, he said, remains a major challenge for ensuring workers’ rights and maintaining global compliance standards.
“To build a sustainable and balanced economy, all sectors must gradually be brought under formal frameworks,” he said.
Safety nets for low-income families
Moktadir said the government is fast-tracking preparations for the “family card” programme aimed at supporting low-income households.
Under the initiative, each family will receive benefits worth Tk 2,500 per month. The programme is expected to improve financial stability among vulnerable groups.
While not a direct rationing system, the scheme will serve similar objectives, he added.
Dialogue essential for labour stability
The commerce minister stressed the importance of regular meetings of the TCC to address ongoing issues in the labour and industrial sectors.
He said differences of opinion during discussions are natural and should not be seen negatively. “Constructive dialogue is key to resolving problems in a sustainable manner,” he said.
He also urged officials to ensure that TCC meetings are held regularly to fulfil their intended purpose.
Eid payments, labour unrest discussed
The meeting reviewed the overall labour situation, with a focus on easing unrest in the RMG sector.
Participants also discussed timely payment of wages and allowances, as well as leave arrangements for workers ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr.
The session was chaired by Labour and Employment and Expatriates’ Welfare Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury.
State Minister Md. Nurul Haque and Prime Minister’s Adviser Mahdi Amin also addressed the event.
Among others, Bangladesh Employers’ Federation President Fazle Hasan Shamsim and TCC Vice-Chairman Md. Anwar Hossain spoke at the meeting.
Labour Secretary Md. Abdur Rahman Tarafder conducted the session, which was attended by representatives from both employers and workers.