The indefinite closure of eight factories under the Pacific Group in Chattogram EPZ has sent a wave of shock and concern throughout Bangladesh’s garment industry. Beyond the immediate halt in production, the decision threatens the livelihoods of more than 35,000 workers and their 175,000 family members — creating a humanitarian and economic crisis that could ripple through the nation’s largest export sector.
Industry insiders describe Pacific Group as one of the country’s most worker-friendly and compliant manufacturers, known for its modern facilities, ethical management, and high production standards comparable to leading global factories. The sudden suspension of operations, therefore, has raised questions about the stability of Bangladesh’s apparel industry and its ability to maintain industrial harmony amid rising tensions.
Amin Nurul, MBA of H&M, expressed deep concern, emphasizing the urgency of dialogue and reconciliation:
“This crisis needs a peaceful solution immediately. Any delay will harm not just Pacific Group but the entire industry. BGMEA, BEPZA, the administration, and worker representatives must act quickly to find a constructive way forward. Those involved in vandalism should face justice, and if external actors have fueled unrest, it must be investigated transparently.”
Supporting this view, Ziaur Rahman, Regional Country Manager of H&M, underscored the broader implications for the country’s economy and reputation:
“We may have different opinions and stands, but at the end, the industry must solve it through constructive dialogue. Otherwise, all our achievements of the past four decades will fade away — leading to loss of employment and hard-earned foreign currencies for the country. Good wishes for Pacific Jeans Ltd.”
Md. Atiqul Islam Apu, Head of Compliance and Sustainability at Fakir Fashion Ltd., described the closure as a warning sign for deeper structural issues:
“The closure of a benchmark-compliant factory like Pacific is not an isolated event — it signals deeper challenges within the industry. A coordinated, pragmatic approach among all stakeholders is essential to restore stability, protect livelihoods, and sustain investor confidence. Swift, transparent, and solution-driven dialogue is the need of the hour.”
Khorshed Alam Bhuiyan, Head of Operations at Epyllion Ltd., focused on the need for accountability and justice:
“Pacific Jeans is a highly reputed company. The video footage shows that some people were involved in the chaos — they should be arrested and brought to justice so that such incidents are not repeated.”
The collective sentiment from these industry leaders reflects one clear message that this is not just about one company, but about safeguarding the credibility of Bangladesh’s entire RMG sector. Swift, peaceful, and transparent resolution of the Pacific Group crisis is not merely desirable — it is essential to protect the nation’s image, sustain employment, and uphold the trust of global buyers.