The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has asked its members to report financial losses caused by recent shutdowns in customs, VAT, and tax offices during large-scale protests over government reforms.

In a circular issued on Thursday, the apparel apex body requested details on the nature of business, type of damage, and estimated losses by 15 August. The move follows the formation of an inter-ministerial committee, led by the finance ministry, to assess the economic impact of the work stoppages. BGMEA is also a member of the committee.

BGMEA senior vice-president Inamul Haq Khan said that the assessment aimed to capture not only lost government revenue but also factory-level damages, including delayed shipments and possible buyer discounts.

National Board of Revenue employees staged protests, pen-down strikes, and full shutdowns in May and June, disrupting trade and revenue collection.

A Bangladesh Bank report shows net ready-made garment (RMG) exports fell 15% in April–June 2025 compared to the previous quarter, dropping to US$5.17bn from US$6.09bn. Raw material imports also fell to US$3.93bn from US$4.25bn.

The central bank attributed the decline to both external shocks and domestic inefficiencies, warning that geopolitical tensions, trade barriers, and infrastructure issues could undermine growth if left unresolved.