Commerce and Textiles & Jute Affairs Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening Bangladesh’s textile industry without repeating the “emotional and misguided decisions” that once harmed the jute sector.
Speaking at the National Textile Day programme held at the Jute Diversification Promotion Centre (JDPC) in Dhaka’s Farmgate, he emphasized that efficient planning, innovation, and competitiveness are essential for achieving long-term growth.
With this year’s theme, “Growth of the Textile Industry, Economic Prosperity,” the event was presided over by Textiles & Jute Secretary Bilkis Jahan Rimi, where Bashir Uddin attended as the chief guest.
The adviser credited entrepreneurs for the steady rise of the textile industry, noting that many owners built expertise by travelling abroad, acquiring technical knowledge, and investing in capacity building. “Achieving 20% profit in this sector is a collective accomplishment,” he said.
Highlighting the need for cost efficiency, he warned that any missteps in capacity development could hinder progress at a time when Bangladesh aims to achieve $100 billion in export earnings, with the textile sector alone contributing 86% to that target.
Speaking to reporters, Bashir Uddin recalled that the jute industry suffered from inefficiency, corruption, mismanagement, and an imbalance between production and demand—issues the government is determined not to repeat. He stressed that industrial development, policy support, investment, entrepreneurship, and skilled graduates will play crucial roles in securing the textile sector’s future.
Addressing a question on edible oil price hikes, the adviser confirmed that traders had increased prices without authorization. The government has issued show-cause notices and initiated discussions with them.
Regarding abandoned jute mills, he said the government is gradually transferring them to the private sector. Fourteen mills have already been leased out through an open tender, with more mills being prepared for 30-year leases.
Eco-Friendly Jute Bags and Market Revival
Bashir Uddin highlighted a major government initiative to revive the jute sector through a climate fund-supported revolving programme involving more than 1,600 entrepreneurs. The initiative aims to promote eco-friendly jute bags by ensuring affordable market access. The government plans to sell one million jute bags during the upcoming trade fair as part of efforts to restore traditional jute goods to mainstream use.
He added that long-term plans are underway to strengthen both the jute and textile industries, ensuring sustainability, competitiveness, and global market readiness.