Bangladesh’s industrial crisis is deepening. According to a report by the Dhaka Tribune, 457 industrial units across seven major industrial areas have permanently shut down over the past two years. These include 108 units linked to the garment industry. The factory closures have had a direct impact on employment. Between January and August 2026, 95 factories shut down, resulting in the direct loss of 61,881 jobs. Factory closures extend beyond textile industry The crisis is not limited to the textile and garment sectors. Of the 457 factories that have closed over the past two years, 287 belonged to other manufacturing industries. This indicates that Bangladesh’s industrial difficulties are affecting multiple sectors, driven by rising costs and an ongoing energy crisis. Gas shortage worsens industrial crisis The biggest challenge is the shortage of energy. In early August, gas pressure in Gazipur fell so low that operations had to be halted at 700–800 factories, while some workers were sent on leave. Low gas pressure prevents boilers and other machinery from operating at full capacity, reducing production and making it difficult for factories to fulfil export orders on time. Foreign buyers could shift to other countries Factories affected by the gas shortage may struggle to remain closed for extended periods. Even when production stops, businesses still have to pay salaries, repay bank loans and cover other expenses. Switching from gas to diesel or LPG further increases operating costs. If the crisis continues, many factories may find it difficult to restart operations. The energy crisis could also affect Bangladesh’s ability to retain orders from foreign buyers. Delays in fulfilling orders could push international buyers towards other countries, further reducing factory revenues. Textile industry could face further trouble if gas shortage continues Textiles and ready-made garments account for a significant share of Bangladesh’s export trade. The sector depends on factories involved in yarn production, fabric dyeing and other preparatory processes. If these units do not receive adequate gas supplies, operations at ready-made garment factories could also be affected. Industry organisations have therefore called for these units to be given priority in gas allocation. Industry organisations have also urged the government to provide factories with daily updates on gas availability and pressure so they can plan production accordingly. They have also sought temporary relief for small and medium-sized factories affected by the gas crisis, including a relaxation of bank loan repayments and faster resolution of labour disputes. The key question in the coming days is how long the gas and electricity crisis will continue. Many factories are already operating below capacity. If the situation does not improve soon and foreign orders remain weak, more financially strained factories could be forced to shut down. The impact would extend beyond employment, potentially affecting local businesses and Bangladesh’s export earnings. Post navigation Tharoor says Congress should learn from CJP:Rise above caste, class and focus on common Indians, middle class Gangster Goldy Brar claims he got Khalistani terrorist killed:Says men who killed his brothers lived in Nijjar’s house; Indian agencies were earlier blamed for murder in Canada
