DHAKA - Despite advancements in automation, questions continue to arise about its impact on garment workers. With this mind, a study by BRAC University (commissioned by the Bangladesh Labour Foundation with Solidaridad Network Asia) surveyed 429 workers in Dhaka, Gazipur, and Narayanganj and held interviews with stakeholders to assess automation's effects.

Bangladesh’s automation level remains low to medium, scoring 2.5–3/5, with only three of ten production stages fully automated. Spinning, dyeing, and fabric finishing have advanced, but sewing, employing most workers, remains semi-automated. System automation supports efficiency through digital IDs, mobile payments, and IoT-enabled monitoring.

Automation improves productivity, efficiency, and quality while reducing errors and physical strain. Workers report increased leisure time and better skills, enabling higher salaries at new jobs. For instance, automated machines produce 200 pieces/hour compared to 50-60 pieces/hour manually. However, less overtime reduces income, highlighting wage structure inadequacies.

Automation displaces unskilled workers, especially women, who often lack technical training. Male workers dominate higher-skilled roles, and limited training leaves many unprepared. Reduced overtime translates to lower earnings amid inflation, straining livelihoods.

The study calls for coordinated efforts among factories, brands, trade unions, and governments. Key recommendations include:

• Factories: Provide training, motivation packages, and internships to upskill workers.
• Brands/Buyers: Ensure fair wages, ethical practices, and fund worker training programs.
• Trade Unions: Advocate for participatory automation strategies, with additional support for women.
• Government: Implement policies to protect workers, develop national training centres, and support SMEs in adopting technology.

The study authors argue that a holistic approach, emphasising worker reskilling and fair labour practices, is critical to making automation equitable in Bangladesh’s RMG sector.