Tannery workers in Bangladesh will receive an advance payment of Tk10,000 (US$82) in addition to their January salaries as part of an interim arrangement while discussions on their minimum wage continue.
The decision came after multiple discussions between Bangladesh Tanners Association (BTA), Bangladesh Finished Leather, Leather Goods and Footwear Exporters Association, and the Tannery Workers’ Union failed to reach a consensus on implementing the five wage grades set by the government.
On Saturday, representatives from these organizations met at BTA’s Dhanmondi office but were unable to finalize the new wage structure for tannery workers. However, to address immediate concerns, tannery owners have agreed to provide the Tk10,000 (US$82) advance as a temporary relief measure.
Md Sakhawat Ullah, General Secretary of the Bangladesh Tanners Association, confirmed that this advance will be adjusted once a final wage agreement is reached.
Abdul Malek, General Secretary of the Tannery Workers’ Union, also acknowledged the decision, stating that the payment would be deducted from workers’ future increased salaries once a minimum wage is determined.
Union representative Nilufa Begum revealed that the workers have paused their movement following the tripartite meeting’s decision. However, she emphasized that they expect a resolution in the upcoming wage discussion scheduled for 20 February.
