Pacific Group Closes Eight Factories in Chattogram, Affecting 35,000 Workers
Pacific Group has announced the indefinite closure of eight factories in Chattogram Export Processing Zone. The decision, effective October 17, affects over 35,000 workers. The management cited illegal work stoppages, unruly behaviour, and acts of vandalism by workers as reasons for the closure.
The closure follows a series of protests and clashes in recent months. Workers first demonstrated on October 9 and 14, and earlier in February 2023, they went on strike. The factories set to close include Pacific Jeans Ltd, Pacific Attires Ltd, and Pacific Accessories, among others. Syed Mohammed Tanvir, managing director of Pacific Jeans Group, announced the closure on October 16, initially stating it would affect around 41,000 people, including 35,000 workers.
The indefinite closure of these factories will significantly impact the local economy and the livelihoods of thousands of workers and their families. Authorities are yet to announce any plans to mitigate the effects of the closure or resolve the ongoing labour disputes.
