Hundreds of garment factories in Bangladesh have ceased operations following days of protests by workers demanding higher wages. The demonstrations, which began earlier in the week, escalated on Sunday with protests in the capital Dhaka turning violent. Protesters blocked roads, vandalized factories, and set vehicles ablaze, while also clashing with police who used tear gas to disperse the crowds. Dozens of protesters were arrested.

Workers are calling for a minimum monthly wage of 30,000 taka (approximately $242 or £180), more than double the current standard, citing the increasing cost of living.

The textile industry in Bangladesh is a significant economic driver, employing around four million workers and producing garments for major international brands such as H&M, Primark, and Uniqlo. The industry generates nearly $40 billion annually, contributing about 10% to Bangladesh's GDP. Bangladesh is the world's second-largest garment exporter, surpassed only by China, yet its garment workers are among the lowest-paid globally, earning approximately 13,000 taka ($105 or £78) per month.

"We want the government to accept our demands and increase our wages. [And] they need to instruct landlords and homeowners not to raise rent and ensure that the prices of essential commodities remain affordable," one female worker told BBC Bangla. Another worker, Mamun, 28, stated, "Food prices, cooking gas and electricity bills have all gone up. The government must either bring down the prices of essential commodities or raise our wages."

In response to the unrest, the government announced the establishment of a board to review workers' wages, and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman convened an emergency meeting with ministers. However, demonstrations persisted on Monday in Dhaka and surrounding manufacturing hubs like Ashulia, Gazipur, and Narayanganj. Reports indicate that approximately 670 factories suspended operations on Monday, with hundreds expected to remain closed on Tuesday. As of Monday, Dhaka police reported 29 arrests, with authorities stating that individuals creating an "unstable environment in the garment factories" would be subject to legal action.

There are concerns within the industry that the ongoing unrest could disrupt production schedules and impact international buyers, according to state news agency BSS.