In Chattogram, a total of 186 garment factories have closed over the past 18 months following the July Revolution, according to industry and police data. Of these, 111 factories were permanently shut by owners, while 76 remain temporarily closed. The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) confirmed that 19 of the closed factories were large-scale members, including six under the Well Group. Around 27,766 workers lost their jobs, though about 18,000 have since found new employment.

Investigations revealed that eight of the 19 large factories were owned by fugitive Awami League-linked businessmen who fled after the political upheaval, while nine others closed due to banking complications tied to merged and inactive banks. BGMEA officials said the sector’s recovery was hindered by financial instability and weak banking operations, despite improved trade conditions with the United States. Many large factories have shifted to subcontracting, leaving smaller units struggling for orders.

Industry Police reported that 55 more factories are now at risk, with concerns over paying wages and bonuses before Eid. Business leaders expressed cautious optimism that new government policies and revived banking operations could help the sector recover.