The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has advised its members not to reply to recent letters from the RMG Sustainability Council (RSC), stating that the issue is still under review.
In a circular issued on Sunday, the BGMEA said it had learned that the RSC’s managing director had recently sent a letter to factories regarding a non-Occupational Safety and Health (non-OSH) complaints mechanism.
“The matter is currently being reviewed, and BGMEA management is in active discussion with the RSC to clarify its stance through constructive dialogue,” the circular read.
The association said it will announce its final position after discussions in the upcoming RSC board meeting.
“Until then, we request all member factories to refrain from responding to any communication, letters, or circulars from the RSC related to the non-OSH complaints mechanism, in order to maintain a unified and consistent response aligned with BGMEA policies,” it added.
The RMG Sustainability Council (RSC)—a tripartite body representing industry, brands, and trade unions—has recently decided to broaden its scope of work.
Starting November 16, the council will begin monitoring employment contracts, terminations, wages, leave, and other benefits, as well as issues related to freedom of association and collective bargaining.
According to an RSC document, it will also address cases involving child or forced labour and discrimination within the country’s export-oriented garment sector.
Following the closure of international initiatives like the Accord and the Alliance—formed after the 2013 Rana Plaza disaster—the RSC was created to oversee factory safety through structural, electrical, fire, life safety, and boiler inspections. It also supports remediation efforts, provides safety training, and manages an independent OSH complaints mechanism for workers in RMG factories.
