Textiles and Jute Minister Golam Dastagir Gazi has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing timely support and modernization efforts to strengthen the jute sector in the country.
During a meeting with a delegation from the Bangladesh Jute Spinners Association (BJSA), the minister highlighted the government's policy support and financial assistance to promote the export of versatile jute products.
The meeting, held on Tuesday at the Ministry of Textiles and Jute, was attended by BJSA Chairman Sheikh Kofil Uddin, Additional Secretary (Planning) of the Ministry of Textiles and Jute, Md. Mahmud Hossain, Additional (Jute) Taslim Kaniz Nahida, Chairman of Akij Jute Mills Ltd., Sheikh Nasiruddin, as well as other association leaders and senior officials from the ministry.
The minister emphasized the importance of ensuring a continuous supply of raw jute to sustain the flow of export earnings from jute and jute products. To prevent unlicensed traders from engaging in unethical practices such as buying, selling, and hoarding raw jute, measures have been implemented, including the prevention of wet buying and selling. The Jute Directorate has been instructed to take necessary actions to ensure an adequate supply of raw jute in the market.
Regarding the mandatory use of jute sacks, as outlined in the ‘Compulsory Use of Jute Wraps in Products Act, 2010’ for 19 specific products, the minister emphasized the need to strengthen the legal system to discourage the use of plastic. While ongoing campaigns are being conducted nationwide, a special campaign is required given the current circumstances.
Representatives from BJSA acknowledged the government's multifaceted action plans and their significant contribution to the national economy. They highlighted the increasing global demand for eco-friendly jute and jute products, urging collective efforts to boost their export. However, they also mentioned that export trade has been affected by factors such as the post-Covid-19 situation, the Russia-Ukraine crisis, and the jute-centric policies of neighboring countries.
Minister Ghazi assured that the government closely monitors the market prices of jute to ensure an adequate supply of raw jute for domestic requirements and to accelerate the export of jute and jute products. With proper seed supply and support to farmers, jute production has increased significantly in recent years, enabling jute mills to consistently procure jute and contribute to export earnings.
Highlighting the start of the jute season, the minister expressed satisfaction with the arrival of raw jute in various parts of the country. The current season is expected to yield satisfactory results in terms of raw jute production. The government will continue to monitor the raw jute market to prevent any unsustainable fluctuations in prices and ensure fair returns for jute growers.
The government's unwavering commitment to the jute sector underscores its efforts to promote sustainable development, capitalize on global demand for eco-friendly products, and drive economic growth in Bangladesh.
