FLA and AAFA reiterate need for sustainable partnership with Bangladesh industry

In a joint brand delegation this week in Dhaka, Bangladesh, the Fair Labor Association (FLA) and the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) urged government and the Bangladesh industry to focus on improving worker rights for a successful Bangladesh garment, footwear, and travel goods industry now and in the years to come. 

The delegation consisted of representatives from FLA, AAFA, Columbia Sportswear Company, KMD Brands, VF Corporation, and others.

“The ready-made garment sector in Bangladesh has a unique opportunity to address the long-standing issues that impact worker’s livelihoods, such as the wage-setting process and reforms to the labor law,” said Shelly Han, executive vice president at the Fair Labor Association. “We look forward to supporting these advancements.”

“We are united around shared goals for a more competitive, socially responsible, and sustainable industry in Bangladesh,” said Nate Herman, AAFA senior vice president of policy.

The FLA/AAFA delegation follows a November 2024 delegation organized by the U.S. Department of State/U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh.

It also follows a joint letter from September 2024 that reads in part, “The Fair Labor Association (FLA) and the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) applaud the interim government’s focus on reforming local labor laws to align with International Labor Organization (ILO) standards. As part of those efforts, FLA/AAFA urge the interim government to focus on improving worker rights for a successful Bangladesh garment, footwear, and travel goods industry now and in the years to come.” The letter advocates for the immediate release of all who remain under arrest, swiftly implement a transparent and regular annual minimum wage review mechanism, and restart tripartite discussions on the Bangladesh Labor Act to bring the law into line with international labor standards. Access the full letter, signed by FLA president and CEO Jeff Vockrodt and AAFA president and CEO Steve Lamar.