Export diversification has become a much-talked about issue for Bangladesh’s sustainable growth when the garment sector, top forex earner of the country, are facing various challenges. Against this backdrop, experts say that Bangladesh has the potential to emerge as a hub of green shipbuilding which will drive the future economy of the country. Bangladesh’s shipbuilding industry has already been recognised globally and it is maintaining modest growth by exporting ships to different countries after meeting local demand.
Green shipbuilding refers to design and construction of ships with minimal environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. These include using eco-friendly materials, optimising energy efficiency, reducing emissions and implementing sustainable practices in shipyards.
Industries Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan at a seminar on Saturday said that the green shipbuilding industry could become the country's next forex giant after the ready-made garment (RMG) sector.
"If the garment sector is our first great leap into global trade, green shipbuilding can be our next great leap-delivering both economic growth and environmental stewardship,” he told the seminar titled ‘Green Shipbuilding: A New Frontier for Export Diversification.’ Dr Anisuzzaman Chowdhury, Chief Adviser's Special Assistant for Finance, spoke as the special guest, while Policy Research Institute (PRI) Chairman and CEO Dr Zaidi Sattar gave a presentation. The International Business Forum of Bangladesh (IBFB) organised the event.
We are very happy to learn about the great prospects for green shipbuilding industry in our country. The adviser’s remarks give us hope and lead us to thinking that Bangladesh will not lag behind other countries economically.
The adviser in his speech also said, "We can lead South Asia in eco-friendly maritime technology, create thousands of high-skilled jobs in design, engineering and advanced manufacturing and help fight climate change while growing our own industry." The adviser also said that true transformation must come from entrepreneurs, investors and innovators.
"Green shipbuilding is no longer just a name. It is rapidly becoming the global standard. Countries that can design, build, and export eco-friendly, low-emission vessels will lead the maritime economy of tomorrow," he said adding that Bangladesh can seize this opportunity to become a global hub for sustainable shipbuilding.
"Shipyards should gain global green certifications, use renewable energy in production, and offer customised eco-friendly vessels for global customers. IBFB can connect industry, policymakers, financiers, and global markets to facilitate this," he added.
We hope the government will foster the thriving green shipbuilding industry by implementing supportive policies, offering financial incentives and promoting international collaboration. The government also needs to provide subsidies for eco-friendly subsidies and invest in infrastructure development for green shipyards.
