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The government will review and reset the minimum wage for tea workers in August, Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury told Parliament on Thursday, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding workers’ rights and improving their living standards.
Responding to a private member’s resolution moved by BNP MP Md Showkatul Islam, the minister said the wage revision would be carried out through the statutory Wage Board, which includes representatives from both employers and workers under the Bangladesh Labour Act, 2006.
“The process of wage revision will continue regularly,” he said, adding that the upcoming review will take into account inflation, employers’ capacity, production costs and the overall living conditions of workers, in line with Section 141 of the law.
Ariful emphasised that the government is giving top priority to the sustainable development of the tea industry while ensuring safe working conditions and protecting the legitimate rights of tea workers.
He noted that improving workers’ welfare goes beyond wage adjustments. “Enhancing overall quality of life is equally important,” he said, pointing to ongoing initiatives to upgrade housing, ensure safe drinking water, strengthen healthcare services and expand educational opportunities for workers’ children.
The minister also highlighted efforts to boost skills development and expand social safety net coverage for tea workers across the country.
He informed the House that wages in the tea sector are typically revised every three years, usually with a 5 percent increase, and that the Wage Board is expected to meet next month to finalise the new structure.
Assuring lawmakers, Ariful said the government would closely monitor the process to ensure tea workers receive their fair entitlements and can lead a more dignified life.
