Staff Reporter:
Leading denim manufacturer Pacific Jeans Group has shut down all seven of its factories in the Chattogram Export Processing Zone (CEPZ) indefinitely, following three days of worker unrest and clashes that disrupted operations.
The closure, effective from October 16, was announced after workers from Pacific Jeans Ltd reportedly halted production, disconnected power lines, and forced others to join the protest on October 14, escalating into violence that spread across the group’s other units.
In separate notices signed by Managing Director Syed M Tanvir, the company cited “continued disorder, clashes, and an unsafe work environment” as reasons behind the decision.
Despite repeated instructions to resume work, demonstrations persisted on October 15 and 16, leading to vandalism and assaults on employees and officials, the notices added.
The group said the indefinite shutdown aims to ensure the safety of workers, staff, and factory property. Operations will resume once a stable environment returns.
Pacific Jeans Group, one of Bangladesh’s top denim exporters, employs over 35,000 workers across its factories — Pacific Jeans Ltd, Jeans 2000, Universal Jeans, NHT Fashions, Pacific Accessories, Pacific Workswear, and Pacific Attires — all located within the CEPZ.
