Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina emphasized the exploration of new jute products and their markets abroad to bolster the export of this "golden fiber," aiming to propel Bangladesh towards prosperity.
Her remarks came during the inauguration of six jute mills and the "Diversified Jute Goods Fair -2024," organized by the Textiles and Jute Ministry at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre (BICC) on the occasion of National Jute Day.
Encouraging diversification and expansion in the jute industry, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of tapping into fresh overseas markets, given the significant demand for environmentally friendly jute products both domestically and internationally.
"We will provide stimulus packages to support jute as both an agricultural commodity and an export item," stated Sheikh Hasina, underscoring her government`s commitment to revitalizing the jute sector for the benefit of entrepreneurs and the nation at large.
Addressing stakeholders, Sheikh Hasina urged meticulous attention to the jute sector`s development, highlighting its potential to contribute substantially to Bangladesh`s economic growth. She called upon leaseholders of jute mills to attract foreign investments and ensure their efficient operation in collaboration with international partners.
The Prime Minister underscored the pivotal role of jute in realizing Bangladesh`s vision of becoming a developed and prosperous nation, free from poverty and hunger by 2041. Emphasizing the enduring demand for jute goods and their eco-friendly nature, she emphasized the need to capitalize on the sector`s opportunities effectively.
Amid concerns over climate change, Sheikh Hasina emphasized the relevance of jute products as environmentally sustainable alternatives, noting the resurgence of jute-made sarees as a testament to the fiber`s versatility and appeal.
With the inauguration of six jute mills, employment opportunities have been created for 12,000 individuals, with an additional 28,000 expected to benefit upon the opening of the remaining mills. These mills, now operated under private ventures, mark a significant step towards revitalizing the jute industry.
Among the newly inaugurated mills are KFD Jute Mills Ltd, Bangladesh Jute Mills, Jatiya Jute Mills Ltd, Jessore Jute Industries Ltd, Carpeting Jute Mills Ltd, and Daulatpur Jute Mills Ltd, reflecting a concerted effort to modernize and revitalize the sector.
During the ceremony, the Prime Minister conferred honorary crests upon individuals, organizations, and associations for their outstanding contributions to the development of the jute sector. The event also featured stalls showcasing various jute products, aligning with this year`s theme, `Bangabandhu er Sonar Desh, Smart Pat Shilper Bangladesh.`
Textiles and Jute Minister Jahangir Kabir Nanak, Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Ministry Golam Dastagir Gazi and Bangladesh Jute Mills Association (BJMS) Chairman Md. Abul Hossain spoke on the occasion.
Secretary of the Textiles and Jute Ministry Md. Abdur Rauf gave the address of welcome at the function.
A video documentary on the National Jute Day 2024 was also screened.
