DHAKA, May 17, (V7N) - Labour and Employment Adviser Brigadier General (retd) Dr. M Sakhawat Hussain announced yesterday that the government will establish a high-level inter-ministerial committee to address long-standing grievances and enhance the overall welfare of tea workers in Bangladesh.

"The committee will comprise representatives from the Ministries of Labour and Employment, Finance, Commerce, Industries, Agriculture, and Land. Furthermore, tripartite discussions involving workers, owners, and government representatives will be conducted to resolve challenges within the tea sector," he stated.

The adviser made these remarks during a view-exchange meeting held on Friday at the Balishira Valley Club in Sreemangal, Moulvibazar, attended by owners, CEOs, and managers of various tea estates, according to a press release issued today.

Dr. M Sakhawat Hussain emphasized, "The government is committed to improving the living standards of tea workers and ensuring their basic needs are met. The construction of a hospital specifically for tea workers in Sreemangal is currently under consideration."


Highlighting the historical significance of the tea industry, he added, "Tea is a traditional export sector of Bangladesh and was once the sole export item of East Pakistan. This industry must not be allowed to decline."

The meeting, chaired by Labour Secretary AHM Shafiquzzaman, featured an address by Kamran Tanvirur Rahman, Chairman and Managing Director of Kapna Tea Company Ltd.

During the session, estate managers raised various concerns and challenges facing the tea industry.

Labour Secretary Shafiquzzaman acknowledged, "Auction prices of tea have fallen below production costs, leading to delays in wage payments to workers. Discussions are underway to improve their wages and ration distribution system."

The meeting was also attended by the Chairman of the Bangladesh Tea Board, the Deputy Commissioner and the Superintendent of Police of Moulvibazar, and officials from the Ministry of Labour and Employment, the Department of Labour, and the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments.

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