Improving working conditions in the garment industry

Bangladesh is one of the world’s largest ready-made garment manufacturers and exporters, with the sector accounting for over 80 per cent of the country’s exports and employing millions of low-skilled workers, the majority of whom are women.

We provided a £43 million loan to DBL Group, one of the largest manufacturers of knitted garments in Bangladesh. This helped them establish Jinnat Textile Mills Ltd, which is creating jobs, improving working standards for women and promoting green building practices within the sector.

Since opening in November 2023, Jinnat Textile has created almost 800 low- and semi-skilled jobs, with more expected. Our partnership with DBL is also helping to improve working conditions and benefits for women, such as paid maternity benefits, nursery facilities, and ‘light duty’ work options when pregnant.

Jinnat Textile is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities in a highly efficient building. The business aims to achieve green building certification, contributing to the sustainable development of Bangladesh’s economy.

Find out more about the impact of businesses in our portfolio in our Annual Review 2023: Creating impact together