Dhaka, Aug. 30 -- Industry leaders in Bangladesh voiced concerns over several proposed amendments to the Bangladesh Labour Act as they think some measures could disrupt industrial harmony, deter foreign investment and weaken the country's export competitiveness.

At a discussion organised by the Bangladesh Employers' Federation (BEF) in Dhaka on Saturday, employers expressed support for balanced reforms but opposed at least nine of the 101 proposed changes, calling for broader stakeholder consultation before implementation.

President of the BEF Fazlee Shamim Ehsan highlighted one of the most contentious proposals which would allow a trade union to be formed with just 20 workers regardless of the factory size.

The event was attended by b...