Global order crisis hits Uttara EPZ factory
The global order crisis has begun to impact the industrial sector at Uttara Export Processing Zone (EPZ) in Nilphamari. Mazen Bangladesh Limited, a factory located in the zone, is struggling to continue full-scale operations.
Imtiaz Kabir Chowdhury, a supplier at Mazen Company, said that the management has decided to clear all outstanding wages and allowances of the workers, along with providing Eid bonuses ahead of the upcoming festival. This decision has brought some relief to the workers. However, the company remains concerned about potential unrest due to the layoff of a large number of employees.
Previously, the factory employed a total of 4,361 workers. However, under the current limited operation, only around 1,100 workers have been instructed to resume work. The remaining 3,261 workers will receive their wages, benefits, retirement facilities, and Eid bonuses
To maintain normal operations, the company has sought cooperation from local political leaders. Concerned stakeholders believe that coordinated efforts among the government, factory management, and workers could help sustain the factory and preserve employment.
Executive Director of BEPZA at Uttara EPZ, Md. Abdul Jabbar, stated that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and instability in the Strait of Hormuz have negatively affected global trade.
This has created a downturn in the international market and led to complications in price adjustments among buyers and investors.
He further added that buyers are currently accepting only one-third of the prepared orders, leaving the rest uncollected. As a result, Mazen Bangladesh Limited has been facing continuous losses.
He also mentioned that if the situation improves in the future, efforts will be made to gradually reinstate the laid-off workers.
AGM (Admin) of Mazen BD Limited, Mohammad Saifur Rahman, stated that due to the recent cancellation of some orders, the company is currently operating on a limited scale.
He added that once the situation improves and the order flow returns to normal, the workers who were previously laid off will be given the opportunity to rejoin the company.
