Shipping affairs advisor Shakhawat Hossain has accused some industrialists of establishing factories with the sole intention of laundering money. He stated that these individuals took out bank loans and funneled the funds abroad, leaving them unable to pay workers. Many of them have now fled the country, resulting in the shutdown of several factories. Shakhawat stressed that the government is not responsible for these closures. On a positive note, he mentioned that due to the smooth operation of other factories, the country’s exports have increased by 7–8%. Regarding labor protests, he acknowledged the workers' right to demonstrate, saying, "Everyone has demands—I do too. I could also take to the streets." He also criticized the undemocratic practices in labor unions, where leaders often refuse to step down after being elected once. He expressed hope that democratic practices will eventually take hold in union leadership through regular elections.