Dhaka: Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque has asked ministry officials to take prompt and effective steps to reopen overseas labor markets that are currently closed to Bangladeshi workers.

He issued the directive at an introductory meeting with officials at the Probashi Kalyan Bhaban in the capital on Thursday. The meeting was his first formal engagement with ministry staff since assuming office.

At present, labor markets in Malaysia, Oman, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates remain closed for low-skilled Bangladeshi workers, creating uncertainty for thousands of prospective migrants.

The minister said the government would pursue a zero-tolerance policy against any irregularities or malpractice affecting expatriate workers. “No one involved in exploiting our migrant workers will be spared,” he said, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and stronger monitoring in overseas employment processes.

State Minister Nurul Haque Nur and Senior Secretary Neyamat Ullah Bhuiyan, among other senior officials, attended the meeting.

Expat minister urges action to reopen closed labor markets

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