According to Rubana Huq, President Bangladesh Garments Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), new conditions on fire safety being imposed by the Accord on Fire and Building Safety in Bangladesh are harming the apparel sector. Accord takes many decisions without consulting BGMEA and the new conditions are slowing down the industry’s pace.
Huq was addressing a workshop on fire safety issues and technical guidelines in Dhaka, according to a report. She also accused Accord of violating conditions of the memorandum of understanding. The Accord was formed in May 2013 as an independent and legally-binding agreement between brands and trade unions to work towards a safe and healthy garment and textile industry in Bangladesh.
