BAT Bangladesh Reaffirms Commitment to Lawful Operations and Constructive Dialogue Amid Worker Protests2 min read
BAT Bangladesh is one of the country’s largest private sector enterprises. For over 115 years, the company has operated in Bangladesh with integrity and in full compliance with all applicable laws of the country. As the only publicly listed company in the cigarette sector and one of the highest capitalized firms on the stock exchange, BAT Bangladesh plays a significant role in the national economy.
In the 2023–2024 fiscal year alone, BAT Bangladesh contributed nearly BDT 36,000 crore to the national exchequer through VAT, supplementary duty, corporate tax, and the health development surcharge—making it one of the highest tax-paying companies in Bangladesh. The company’s value chain directly and indirectly supports more than 1.5 million people—including employees, farmers, distributors, suppliers, and retailers. BAT Bangladesh is also proud to be one of the most preferred employers in the country, and the only company in Bangladesh to be certified as a Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute for six years, according to press release.
In recent times, a group of former seasonal workers at the Green Leaf Threshing Plant (GLTP) in Kushtia has raised numerous demands. Steps have already been taken to address most of the raised demands where appropriate, in order to achieve an effective end to the current disruption. However, based on the legal interpretation, the remaining few demands appear to fall outside the provisions of Bangladesh’s Labour Laws.
Read more: BAT Bangladesh to Invest Tk 25 Crore in Packaging Upgrade
As part of BAT Bangladesh’s commitment to a peaceful resolution, they have engaged in open and constructive dialogue with the protesting worker representatives, participated in multiple rounds of discussions facilitated by relevant government authorities, and offered improved benefits within the legal framework.
The current season is particularly critical for leaf buying and processing. Over 50,000 farmers rely on this factory to ensure their yield is processed on time—further underscoring the broader importance of uninterrupted operations.
The ongoing labor unrest has delayed the start of operations at our seasonal factory in Kushtia, causing significant financial losses. This disruption puts both of the export commitments and local production at risk. Moreover, the protesting workers are now threatening other workers who are willing to return to work, indicating that the movement is being driven by a few with vested interests, rather than being driven by the collective voice of the broader workforce.
If unresolved, the situation may force BAT Bangladesh to halt operations entirely, resulting in revenue losses for both our business and the government—an outcome we must avoid.
With a legacy of 115 years in Bangladesh, they remain committed to contributing to the economy of Bangladesh, livelihood of many, and wellbeing of our employees. BAT Bangladesh is optimistic that, with the continued cooperation of all stakeholders, the matter will be resolved amicably and in the best interest of all parties involved.
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