Garment Sector Research Articles

An Analysis of Safety and Security Management in the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) Sectors in Bangladesh

The ready-made garments (RMG) sector significantly contributes to Bangladesh’s developed foreign currency reserve. However, ensuring the safety and security of the large number of RMG workers in this sector remains a critical concern. Currently, there are numerous obstacles standing in the way of enhancing safety and security management in Bangladesh’s ready-made garment (RMG) industry. To enhance safety and security management, it is necessary to examine workers’ beliefs and habits, the level of management’s involvement, and any gaps in the regulatory framework to establish a solid foundation in the workplace. Numerous examples demonstrate how the lack of an appropriate safety and security management system contributes to accidents, resulting in a significant number of worker fatalities. The safety and security conditions of the ready-made garment (RMG) industries in Bangladesh have been the subject of global concern as a result of these incidents. This article focused on the role of regulatory reform in fostering a safe management work environment, examining the perspectives of workers, employers, and government regulatory bodies. The main objectives of this study are to conduct an analysis of the safety and security management of the ready-made garment (RMG) sectors in Bangladesh, with a particular emphasis on management engagement and government authorization. The study employed qualitative methods to gather primary and secondary data, and then analysed this data to derive recommendations for enhancing safety and security management in Bangladesh’s ready-made garment (RMG) sector. Through the implementation of workers’ self-efficacy and the improvement of collaboration between workers, employers, and the government in the RMG sectors of Bangladesh, the findings of the study have the potential to contribute to managerial change that is both successful and efficient.

Resilience components of the supply chain in the apparel sector of Pakistan throughout COVID-19

This study examines the significant impact of COVID-19 on Pakistan's apparel industry, which has faced severe challenges due to global supply chain disruptions and the cancellation of $2.1 billion in export orders by major international buyers. As a key contributor to Pakistan's economy and a major source of employment, especially for women, the apparel sector has been severely strained, with brands like H&M and Walmart reducing business. This has led to factory closures and widespread job losses. Using an explanatory research design and deductive approach, the study focuses on supply chain resilience in the garment sector during the pandemic. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire targeting HR and administrative personnel familiar with company policies and strategies. A sample of 150 respondents was surveyed to assess vulnerabilities, operational sustainability, capabilities, and supply chain resilience. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS (version 26), supported by data from newspapers, online sources, and observations. A pilot study confirmed the reliability of the questionnaire. The study highlights the need for greater collaboration among governments, international buyers, and textile organizations to support the industry during crises. It also identifies the health risks faced by workers and emphasizes the importance of policy measures such as stronger labor protections and continued government support. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and industry leaders to enhance resilience and sustainability in the global garment industry.

Shaping the perception of Sustainable Fashion: Power Intervention as Metaphor of Social Media Discourse (Power - government power)

Social media and government regulations play critical roles in promoting sustainability, but both confront substantial hurdles. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok democratise sustainability talks, yet also face challenges such as greenwashing and consumerism. Governments can incentivise sustainable activities through legislation, but they frequently meet criticism from economic interests and challenges in international cooperation. This study looks at how social media and government interventions influence popular perceptions of sustainable fashion. The study investigates how government organisations disseminate sustainability themes using discourse analysis, interviews with designers, lawmakers, and influencers, as well as content analysis of government and fashion-related posts. The findings suggest that while government programs shape public discourse by portraying sustainable fashion as a societal responsibility, scepticism regarding the genuineness of these messages reveals a trust gap. Governments use social media to influence public opinion through eco-labeling, sustainability certifications, and collaborations with environmentally aware individuals, however greenwashing remains a challenge. Influencers use channels like Instagram and TikTok to fight scepticism by delivering honest, emotional stories that make sustainability more relevant. The study emphasises the importance of transparency in government messaging and proposes that visual content might help make sustainability more accessible to the general population. It provides vital insights on how the government and social media may work together to promote sustainable fashion, as well as recommendations for future eco-friendly garment sector promotion initiatives.

Perceptions of Garment Workers on Retraining and Skill Development to Adapt to the Requirements of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (A Case Study of the VSIP Industrial Park - Hai Phong)

The rapid improvement of automated equipment and innovative production lines needs increased worker awareness and the development of adaptive abilities, which are critical for determining the competitive competence of enterprises in the sector. This study investigates the perspectives of garment industry workers on retraining and skill development activities to meet the needs of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR 4.0). The study collected information from 117 people who now work in the VSIP industrial parks in Hai Phong. The research looks at the following significant aspects: i) Employees' understanding of the need for retraining; ii) Employees' perspectives on the critical skills necessary to meet Industry 4.0 requirements; and iii) Barriers to accessing and participating in training programs. The findings show that, while employees in the garment sector recognize the importance of retraining and skill development, several individuals need help accessing these programs due to time constraints, financial constraints, and a lack of information about training opportunities. The study emphasizes the need to develop training programs that combine technical competence with interpersonal skills and establish support networks from businesses and organizations that assist workers (such as unions and job placement centers).

Business Performance of Selected Apparel Companies in Jiangxi, China Through Media Marketing: Developing A Comprehensive Sales Performance Evaluation Model

This study aimed to analyze the media marketing strategies and business performance of global Chinese garment enterprises, with a focus on developing a comprehensive sales performance evaluation model. The model aims to align with the latest marketing trends, emphasize global business operations, and foster the sustainable growth of Chinese apparel enterprises in an increasingly competitive international market. By understanding the interplay between marketing strategies and business outcomes, this research provides valuable insights into optimizing sales performance in the garment sector. The study adopted a descriptive-comparative-correlational design, enabling an in-depth analysis of the relationships and differences among variables. Data were collected from employees of three well-established garment enterprises in Jiangxi Province: Company A, Company B, and Company C. A total of 323 employees from these companies were randomly selected to ensure a representative sample for the study's objectives. To guarantee the reliability and accuracy of the findings, the investigation employed a standardized assessment tool. This tool was developed using a self-constructed survey questionnaire specifically designed to capture critical data on media marketing strategies and their impact on business performance. The questionnaire assessed various dimensions of marketing efficiency, employee perspectives, and organizational performance metrics. The findings of this study are expected to provide actionable recommendations for Chinese garment enterprises aiming to enhance their global competitiveness. Additionally, the results will contribute to a broader understanding of the strategic role of media marketing in fostering sustainable business growth.

Female Garment Workers in Bangladesh Facing Human Rights Violation; A Search to Find the Root Causes

Among the most important productive sectors of Bangladesh is the garment industry. The total contribution of the garment industries to the national foreign exchange earnings is 83%. Though the garment sector has created substantial employment for female workers, female workers face numerous human rights violations at the workplace including sexual harassment, forced labor, maltreatment of supervisors, maternity leave problems, safety problem, and health problem etc. This qualitative study gathered data from male and female garment workers, as well as from senior managers and owners, and experts from NGOs and from universities. This study revealed social-cultural, economic, structural and organizational causes behind human rights violations of female garment workers. Some of the causes are deficiency of education, fear of losing employment through complaining, lack of awareness and government oversight, weakness of the National Human Rights Commission and human rights organizations, unwillingness of owners to face the issue, poverty, and entrenched patriarchy.

Strategic motivators for integrating energy economics into the developing garments sector: A comprehensive analysis from Bangladesh

This research explores the strategic incentives driving the integration of energy economics into Bangladesh's evolving garment sector. The garments industry is a significant revenue generator for the nation; it is currently entering its prime phase, where the balance between economic growth and sustainability becomes critical. This paper presents a landscape by evaluating trends, framework conditions, and scenario-based case studies. These may lead to perceptions regarding integrating energy economic trends and their impact on the sector's efficiency, competitiveness, and sustainability levels. This case study proposes exclusive strategies to promote energy-efficient garment manufacturing in Bangladesh. This paper provides practical tools for Bangladesh policymakers, investors, and garment manufacturers to highlight the economic benefits of adopting energy-efficient practices. It notifies about policies, contributes to better decision-making, and fuels sustainability investments. It also calibrates the sector with global sustainability standards that promote long-term competitiveness, environmental responsibility, and resilience in the garments industry.

Firm sorting, clustering, and vertical disintegration: Evidence from China

Using universal firm-level data on the garment sector in Pearl River Delta, China, we show that clustered firms are more likely to be vertically disintegrated. Additionally, an increase in clustering and vertical disintegration is observed following China’s accession to the World Trade Organization. However, most models of changes in agglomeration forces fail to explain these findings. Contrary to the commonly held view that high-productivity firms sort into clusters, we show that agglomeration can disproportionately benefit less productive firms when the agglomeration force is input sharing. Empirical evidence supports this view.

Enhancing energy efficiency in Bangladesh’s readymade garment sector: the untapped potential of LED lighting retrofits

Purpose Previous studies emphasized the substantial energy-saving potential of light emitting diode (LED) lighting systems, especially in the clothing industry. However, the specific quantification of energy conservation potential in industrial factories, particularly in Bangladesh’s readymade garment (RMG) sector, remains unexplored. The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential energy savings and efficiency improvements of lighting systems in Bangladesh’s RMG sector using LED technology. Design/methodology/approach Understanding and optimizing energy consumption is crucial in the RMG sector because this sector contributes significantly to the country’s export earnings. For this, an RMG factory was surveyed and possible lighting system retrofitting was estimated and compared. Findings The adoption of energy-efficient lighting options, particularly LED, could decrease the current lighting energy usage from 15% to 7.5% in Bangladesh. First, this study reveals, that the reduction of annual energy consumption was determined to be 18,220 kWh due to the retrofitting of the lighting system with LED tube. Second, it conducts real-time measurements to assess the suitability of in-building lighting systems, providing insights into the current scenario. Lastly, it evaluates the economic and environmental benefits of the proposed lighting system in the RMG industries. Due to the retrofitting of the lighting system, the reduction of equivalent CO2 gas emissions was found to be 119.896 tCO2. Originality/value For the first time, this study explored the potential for enhancing energy-efficient lighting system design through retrofitting in the RMG industry, with a focus on Bangladesh. By addressing these aspects, this study aims to contribute to the advancement of energy efficiency and conservation efforts in the RMG sector, ultimately fostering sustainable industrial development in Bangladesh and beyond.

The Perception and Approach of Bangladeshi Ready-made Garment Factory in the Current Context of Digital Marketing

As a catalyst, digital marketing promotes consumer interaction, recognition of the brand, and broadening company growth. Since the Bangladesh Ready-made garment sector makes a significant contribution to the economy of the country and engagement in the international market, the primary purposes of the study-the current scenario and perception of textile factories regarding digital marketing were analyzed using convenience sampling in a mixed-method approach and a self-made questionnaire, data from 29 factories. Descriptive statistics explored the factory's full consciousness of the effectiveness of digital marketing, but implementation and updates were slow and had limited benefits. It also attempts to develop hypotheses to observe which variables have a relationship with the factory’s initiative in digital marketing, and the Fisher exact test was applied. The odds ratio had helped for better interpretation, and most of the factories accepted that investment in digital marketing was worthy due to its cost effectiveness. Now the capabilities of digitalization are a matter of consideration, though sometimes factories are offered digital marketing from their suppliers, and then it’s easy to apply it to their buyers. Ultimately, building partnerships with technically sound companies and developing diversified items can help managers, owners, and stakeholders prosper in their worldwide business growth.

Protection of Human Rights in the Global Garment Industry

Considerable expansion of the global garment industry, which in recent decades has become one of the largest employment sectors worldwide, has intensified scrutiny of states’ and businesses’ responsibilities, especially as production increasingly shifts to countries with less strict labour regulations. Analysis of the landscape reveals that, significant progress notwithstanding, world dialogue on business responsibilities has still not arrived at a solution. The complex network of stakeholders in the garment industry brings particular challenges to enforcing human-rights protection in this domain. The article explores the intersection of business practices and human rights within the garment sector, focusing on Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan, three countries which play a pivotal role in global fashion exports. Examining the legal obligations of state and non-state actors under various UN instruments by analysing the Universal Periodic Review mechanism and the concluding observations of the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, it identifies critical issues in protecting human rights in these countries and briefly also reviews recent advances in the EU in the realm of business and human rights. The paper presents evidence that the growing influence of non-state actors calls for extending the obligations from traditional approaches’, which have focused on state responsibilities. Among the solutions proposed are reforming wage systems and imposing direct human-rights requirements on corporations, supported by more vigorous enforcement.

The Impact of HRM Practices on Employee Performance: A Study on Readymade Garments Sector in Bangladesh

This study explores the impact of Human Resource Management (HRM) practices on employee performance in the Readymade Garments (RMG) sector of Bangladesh, employing qualitative data collection methods to gain in-depth insights. As the RMG sector plays a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s economy, understanding how HRM practices influence employee performance is essential for organizational growth and effectiveness. Data were collected through semi- structured interviews with HR managers, team leaders, and employees from various RMG firms, as well as focus group discussions. The research focused on key HRM practices including recruitment and selection, training and development, performance appraisal, compensation and benefits, and employee relations. These practices were examined to understand their perceived impact on employee performance, such as job satisfaction, productivity and motivation. The qualitative analysis reveals that effective recruitment and selection practices are crucial in aligning employee skills with job requirements, leading to higher performance levels. Comprehensive training programs are valued for enhancing skills and boosting confidence, which positively affects productivity. Transparent and fair performance appraisals are seen as motivating employees and fostering a sense of achievement. Competitive compensation and supportive employee relations contribute to job satisfaction and commitment, driving overall performance. The findings indicate that while HRM practices in the RMG sector are generally effective, there are areas for improvement. This research provides actionable insights for HR professionals and organizational leaders aiming to improve performance outcomes in the RMG sector.

Mapping of Risks and Firm Performance: Insights from Small Scale Garment Enterprises in Eldoret Town, Uasin Gishu County, Kenya

Small-scale garment enterprise projects are pivotal in Kenya’s economic development, contributing significantly to employment and poverty alleviation. These projects often face challenges that impede their growth and performance. The paper seeks to establish the effect of mapping risks on the performance of small-scale garment enterprise projects in Eldoret town. An explanatory research design was used and the target population consisted of 386 small-scale garment enterprise owners. A sample size of 196 small-scale garment enterprise projects in Eldoret town was selected using Yarmane formula. The respondents were selected using stratified sampling method and data was collected using questionnaires. The analysis was done using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Result showed that scheduling milestones had statistically positive effect on the performance of garment enterprise projects (β 0.947, p<0.05). The paper concludes that mapping of risks is critical processes of ensuring that garment enterprises attain performance targets. It is therefore recommended that comprehensive risk mapping practices need to be regularly undertaken by SMEs in the garment sector in Eldoret town

Does 4IR and Covid 19 Effect The Quality of Work Life and Living Standard of Women Workers? Evidence from Selected RMG Firms in Bangladesh

Purposes The study's main objective is to find out the impact of the fourth industrial revolution and covid-19 on women workers of selected Ready-Made Garments (RMG) sector in Bangladesh. Methodology This study mainly followed a quantitative research approach with survey study. Total 18 garments (case) has been chosen randomly from DSE listed RMG firm based on access priority. Sample size for survey study has been determined by statistical method is 384. But this study consider total (15*27) = 405. Data have been collected from selected respondents (women workers) using structured questionnaire. Findings The study reveals that women workers in the RMG sector exhibit a remarkable lack of anxiety about their work-life quality, largely due to their experience and resilience in handling the challenges of their profession. It highlights the adaptability of these workers and underscores the importance of targeted support and interventions to promote sustainable livelihoods and better working conditions amid persistent challenges. Implications The study's findings can inform policymakers about the specific challenges faced by women workers in the RMG sector due to the convergence of 4IR and the COVID-19 pandemic. Originality/Value this study's originality and value lie in its intersectional analysis, empirical evidence, contextual specificity, practical implications, and contributions to knowledge, all of which enrich our understanding of the complex dynamics shaping the lives of women workers in Bangladesh's RMG sector amidst the challenges of 4IR and COVID-19. Limitations The study's findings may be limited by the scope of the selected RMG firms and the sample size of women workers included in the research. While efforts were made to ensure diversity within the sample, the findings may not be representative of all women workers in the RMG sector in Bangladesh, limiting the generalizability of the results.

Work related Stress of Garment Workers in Bangladesh

The export-oriented Garment sector has made crucial contribution to the transformation of the Bangladesh economy. The number of garment industry is now about 5560 and provides employment to as many as 5.0 million workers. Job stress is one of the common problems that employees confront with increasing frequency. Recently job stress is becoming an epidemic in the work environment. This cross sectional study was carried out on a sample of 418 garment workers selected by non-probability sampling technique from two garment factories. The study was done from 1st July 2021 to 30th June 2022 with an objective to assess the level of job stress and related factors in garment workers. Job stress was estimated by using Occupational stress index (OSI) questionnaire; while socio-demographic, behavioral and work related information were obtained using semi structured questionnaire. Among 418 respondents, 71% were female and 21% were male, their mean age was 29.35±6.185 & they were mostly married (72%). 45.2% had no formal education The mean family income and individual income were Tk.13181.07±4826.598 & Tk.6812.10±1029.504 respectively. Among the respondents, 64.4% belong to cutting/sewing section, 79.2% of them were employed for 1 to 5 years & mean duration of employment was 3.78±3.083 years. Among respondents, 69.9% had moderate stress followed by 17% having low stress and 13.2 % with high stress. Among 12 subscale the mean scores of under participation (mean score = 4.33) and responsibility for person (mean score =4.22) was higher. It was found that monthly income and compulsory work over time produce odds ratio 0.401, 11.963 respectively. This indicates every additional unit of monthly income, respondents were 0.401 times less likely to develop job stress (OR=.401) and every additional unit of compulsory overtime, respondents were 11.963 times more likely to develop job stress (OR=11.963). There was a significant association of job stress and gender, smoking habit, monthly income and work overtime. Measures to be taken to alleviate these stressors which can promote the worker in greater contribution in their profession. J. of Sci. and Tech. Res. 5(1): 163-168, 2023

Creating a local managerial regime in global context: The case of the Bangladesh ready‐made garment sector

AbstractThis article analyses the strategic construction of a factory management regime as an instrument of local value extraction, set against an intensely competitive global value chain in the apparel sector. The article focuses on Bangladesh where, as elsewhere, work in ready‐made garment factories is characterised by long hours, poor pay, hostility to freedom of association and the suppression of independent collective bargaining. This article presents a long‐term study of the ways that managers who preside over such environments are identified, recruited and deployed. In the context of the global value chain in garments, this article shines a light on managerial regimes which squeeze labour and perpetuate inequality as part of extracting value at workplace level, in the context of a broader, internationally dispersed, industrial regime of exploitation.

Economic Resilience and Gender Empowerment: A Post-Pandemic Analysis of Bangladesh's Ready-Made Garment Sector

Economic Resilience and Gender Empowerment: A Post-Pandemic Analysis of Bangladesh's Ready-Made Garment Sector

Corporate Governance Couture: Tailoring Financial Performance in the Indonesian Textile and Garment Sector

This research aims to determine the impact of institutional ownership, managerial ownership, independent commissioners, audit committees, and firm size on the financial performance of textile and garment industry sub-sector companies within the period of 2016 to 2021. By adopting an explanatory research approach, the study focuses on a population of textile and garment sub-sector companies listed on the Indonesian Stock Exchange, a total of 21 companies, selected through purposive sampling. Multiple linear regression analysis was employed as the analytical method. The findings indicate that institutional and managerial ownership does not significantly impact the financial performance of the examined companies. However, independent commissioners, active audit committees, and firm size significantly influence financial performance, supporting the critical role of these corporate governance mechanisms and firm characteristics in shaping financial outcomes within the Indonesian textile and garment sector. The study contributes to understanding the complex relationship between corporate governance mechanisms, firm characteristics, and financial performance. Future research should consider expanding the sample size and exploring other variables influencing financial performance in the textile and garment industry. Furthermore, investigating the mediating or moderating effects of other contextual factors or industry-specific characteristics could provide deeper insights into the observed relationships. Keywords: audit committee, firm size, good corporate governance, independent commissioner, institutional ownership, managerial ownership, ROE

Successful Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Implementation in Readymade Garments factories in Bangladesh: Case Studies of SQUARE Fashions PLC and Nothern Toshrifa Group Limited, Bangladesh

Bangladesh's transformation into an agricultural nation has resulted in significant foreign exchange earnings from the export of ready-made garments (RMG) since the 1970s. Any RMG firm's main business operations are strongly associated with information and communication technology (ICT). The ready-made garment (RMG) sector in Bangladesh has been facing various challenges to secure a competitive position in the global market, including the improvement of industrial operational excellence. Among the various issues, implementation of ICT is felt to be a common and effective way to enhance operational excellence. A PhD thesis was made on the topic “Application of Information and Communication Technology in the Readymade Garments Industry: A Study on the Bangladesh Market” by the author. To validate the hypotheses and results of the thesis, two RMG firms are chosen to compare their gross sales and net profit before and after the implementation of ICT in their industry. The main objective of the case study is to increase information and communication technology (ICT) usage, resulting in improved operational excellence and increased profit.

Strategies for economic sustainability: An empirical study on Muri, Mura, and Muda in the readymade garment sector

Achieving economic sustainability in the garment manufacturing industry necessitates the implementation of several strategic measures. Basic strategies like adoption of automation, utilization of sustainable energy sources, diversification of markets and products, enhancement of supply chain resilience, etc. lead to the attainment of economic sustainability in the garment manufacturing industry. Additionally, the underlying component of these strategies for ensuring economic sustainability is the minimization of process waste, which can be effectively achieved through the application of lean manufacturing principles, specifically targeting the elimination of Muri, Mura, and Muda. This strategic commitment ensures business longevity amid evolving industrial landscapes, fostering innovation and competitiveness. In emerging economies like Bangladesh, pinpointing precise approaches to reduce waste is vital. This study explores into Muri, Mura, and Muda in the RMG sector, utilizing Pareto analysis, Fuzzy theory, Total Interpretative Structural Modeling (TISM), and Matriced’ Impacts Cruoses Multiplication Applique an un Classement (MICMAC) analysis. After the initial identification of 21 (twenty) factors, Pareto analysis pinpointed the primary 16 (sixteen) factors. Subsequently, these factors underwent analysis through fuzzy TISM and fuzzy MICMAC. The results highlighted “Demand variation”, “Supplier variation”, “Workforce variation”, and “Energy supply variation” as the most crucial factors. The novelty of this study lies in exploring Muri and Mura factors in correlation with Muda employing the existing hybrid and effective methodology that combines Pareto analysis, Fuzzy MICMAC, and Fuzzy TISM methodologies. It offers fresh perspectives on their significance for economic sustainability in the garment sector. Prior research has not explored this integrated approach to reduce process waste by addressing Muri and Mura factors in emerging economies’ garment industries. This research is poised to significantly impact waste reduction in the RMG sector, enhancing competitiveness, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers, and ensuring industry standards adherence essential for sustained success. The contribution of this research is grounded in helping the practitioners and entrepreneurs in developing nations make strategic choices that will lead to the RMG sector’s resilience and, ultimately, economic sustainability.