Bangladesh’s leather industry continues to face challenges, with Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin attributing the longstanding decline to entrenched syndicates within the sector. Speaking to journalists after a visit to the country’s largest rawhide market in Benapole, he emphasised that recovery will require time and concerted efforts.
Sheikh Bashir highlighted that the Government is prioritising the interests of orphanages and madrasas, aiming to safeguard the industry’s future. A special control team has been deployed to monitor the situation and dismantle the syndicates that have hindered growth. The Adviser asserted that no previous government has taken such comprehensive measures for the leather sector, including the distribution of 7.5 lakh tonnes of salt to stabilise rawhide prices.
However, he acknowledged challenges, noting that some madrasas submitted unsalted rawhide, which the Government cannot fix prices for. He also pointed to a lack of awareness among seasonal traders, leading to significant losses during Eid.
To support tannery owners, the government released Taka 220 crore in incentives ahead of the festival. Additionally, efforts are ongoing to expand markets and increase global demand for Bangladeshi leather products.
Despite these initiatives, Sheikh Bashir Uddin said, the sector still faces criticism, but assured that the government’s efforts are unprecedented. He called on all stakeholders to collaborate for the industry’s long-term improvement.
