Factory owners seek unified code of conduct from buyers for audit

The Forum panel — one of the platforms contesting the upcoming Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) election — has called for a unified code of conduct for factory audits. 

Currently, different buyers impose separate codes of conduct, leading to increased costs and hassle for Bangladeshi garment suppliers, the panel said.

Mahmud Hasan Khan Babu, leader of the Forum panel, raised the issue at a programme introducing the panel's candidates for the BGMEA election, at BGMEA complex in the capital's Uttara yesterday (24 May). The election is scheduled for 31 May.

"A supplier producing for five buyers often has to follow separate social and compliance audits for each buyer. This creates unnecessary costs and complications," he said while addressing the event as the panel leader.

He added, "We will work for a unified code of conduct and will work with brands and the government to make it a reality."

Mahmud also expressed his commitment that neither he nor his panel members would use BGMEA for political purposes or personal gain.

"If our panel wins the election and assumes responsibility as the board of directors, we will ensure that BGMEA is not used for political benefit," he stated.

A total of 76 candidates are contesting for 35 director posts in the upcoming BGMEA election. Apart from the Forum panel, another 35 candidates are contesting under the "Sammilita Parishad" panel.

At the event, Forum panel also announced its action plan, which includes, stablishing a separate ministry dedicated to the garment industry, providing comprehensive support to SMEs and new entrepreneurs, advocating for outsourcing the customs audit process to save time and reduce costs, prioritising industry safety, labour rights, and environmental protection, ensuring buyer accountability and expanding access to new markets.

Guaranteeing fair representation of genuine exporters within BGMEA, preparing the industry to qualify for GSP Plus after LDC graduation and working with the government to establish FTAs and PTAs with various countries, assigning each selected panel member the responsibility of representing 50 factories and resolving their issues, and establishing crisis management cells based on industrial zones are also in the panel's action plan.

Implementing a proper exit policy for distressed or non-viable industries, and working proactively to sustain industry capacity amid global policy changes are also in its list of commitments.