Post-Dhaka attack Japan's Uniqlo suspends most Bangladesh travel

Following the Dhaka terror attack that killed 20 people, including seven Japanese, Japan's Fast Retailing Co, owner of the Uniqlo casual wear brand, has suspended all but critical travel to Bangladesh and told staff here to stay home.

According to reports Uniqlo has 10 Japanese staff in Bangladesh, one of its major production hubs outside China.

It was one among the first to confirm that it will tighten travel restrictions to Bangladesh.

A spokeswoman said all but critical travel was suspended, reports the Dhaka Tribune.

Many industry analysts have suggested that foreign brands could now consider shifting out of Bangladesh. So far, no major producer has yet signalled official plans.

Sweden's H & M on said in a Sunday statement said that there are no plans in changing any sourcing, but were following developments closely.

With major retailers from Uniqlo to Marks and Spencer and Gap Inc likely to rethink their investment after the latest attack targeting foreigners, Bangladesh's 26 billion-dollar garment industry has been bracing for the fallout.

One of the world's poorest countries, Bangladesh relies on garments for around 80 percent of its exports and for about 4 million jobs.

Nine Italians, seven Japanese, one Indian, one Bangladeshi American and two Bangladeshis were killed in the terror attack at Holey Artisan Bakery in Gulshan on Friday night.

Besides 20 people, two senior police officers-Banani Police Station officer-in-charge Salauddin Ahmed Khan and Detective Branch Assistant Commissioner Robiul Islam were killed while trying to rescue the hostages.