Tannery workers in Bangladesh could see a raise to their minimum monthly wage to Tk 22,776, as suggested by the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD). 

A recent study by CPD indicates that workers in the tannery industry face significant financial strain due to high inflation and market conditions. The study highlights a combined monthly expenditure of Tk 33,478 for food and non-food items.

Despite a minimum wage of Tk 13,500 set in 2018, many workers still receive lower wages. According to the CPD, 16 percent of surveyed workers earn less than Tk 13,500, while 43 percent earn below Tk 15,881 despite years of service.

The CPD survey also reveals a lack of workers’ awareness of wage grading systems and government-mandated minimum wages. The absence of mechanisms for promotion or increment exacerbates workers’ financial challenges.

Weak monitoring by the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments contributes to non-compliance with minimum wage regulations. The CPD found that 46 percent of surveyed tanneries had not undergone any inspections.

Liaquat Ali Mollah, chairman of the Minimum Wages Board for tannery workers, acknowledges the challenges workers and owners face. He emphasizes the need for improved working conditions and medical allowances to safeguard workers’ health and livelihoods.

However, tannery owners express skepticism regarding the feasibility of implementing the CPD’s proposed minimum wage. Md Shaheen Ahmed, chairman of the Bangladesh Tanners Association (BTA), cites financial difficulties and increased production costs as barriers to compliance.