Bangladesh’s Garment Sector Faces Shutdown Amid Security Crisis

The garment sector in Bangladesh is experiencing significant turmoil as multiple factories in Gazipur, Savar, and Narayanganj have temporarily ceased operations. This disruption comes amid a notable decline in economic activity and rising concerns over internal security across the country. A detailed report from CNN-News18 highlights widespread labour unrest and deteriorating law and order, which are paralyzing key industrial and commercial hubs.

With the garment industry being vital to Bangladesh’s export-driven economy, these factory closures are particularly concerning. Management at various factories has cited worker safety, transport disruptions, and increasing insecurity as the primary reasons for their shutdowns. Companies linked to the Bashundhara Group, along with associated logistics operations, have also reduced shifts or halted production as a precautionary measure.

As a result, supply chains are facing significant disruptions. Sources indicate that uncertainty regarding night-time transport and fears of sabotage have forced many companies to operate well below capacity. The challenges extend beyond manufacturing. Fuel depots, transport firms, and cold storage facilities on the outskirts of Dhaka have suspended night operations entirely, citing security risks and lack of adequate policing, which has exacerbated logistical bottlenecks affecting the movement of goods and essential supplies.

Retail and wholesale trade is also under severe pressure. Shopping malls and wholesale markets in parts of Dhaka and Chattogram are closing early due to fears of vandalism, arson, and mob violence. Business owners report a sharp decline in customer footfall and increased concerns about operating after dark. Export-oriented small and medium enterprises, particularly those dealing in leather goods, plastics, and light engineering products, have halted dispatches, largely due to uncertainty at ports and acute labour shortages.

Several exporters are voicing fears that prolonged disruptions could lead to cancelled international orders, potentially damaging Bangladesh’s reputation as a reliable supplier. Alongside the economic downturn, the law and order situation has noticeably declined. Local intelligence assessments obtained by CNN-News18 warn that conditions may worsen after dark, with multiple political parties and extremist groups reportedly becoming more active and exploiting the weak enforcement environment.

Sources indicate that Islamic militant organizations are attempting to capitalize on the instability, using the unrest as a cover to expand their influence. Alarmingly, military sources have reported growing frustration and discontent among ranks, indicative of broader institutional stress. Accounts suggest that the police force is no longer functioning effectively, with allegations that the government has instructed police not to act decisively against student protesters and rioters. In many cases, police personnel are accused of remaining passive bystanders, further emboldening disruptive elements.

The unfolding situation in Bangladesh raises serious concerns about the potential long-term implications for the garment sector and the wider economy, as well as the overall stability of the country.