United News of Bangladesh

Industries, Commerce, and Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir on Monday said the government is moving ahead with a coordinated and timely action plan to revive the country’s industrial sector, stabilise markets and ensure uninterrupted supply of essential commodities. “Reviving sick and closed industries to boost production and employment remains one of the government’s top priorities,” he said while talking to journalists after the fourth session of the second day of the Deputy Commissioners’ (DCs) Conference at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital. The minister said the process of gradually handing over around 50 closed and loss-making textile and jute mills to the private sector is underway. “This initiative will attract new investment, increase production and create large-scale employment opportunities,” he said, adding that the process is expected to be completed within a year. Referring to proposals from deputy commissioners, Muktadir said they presented practical suggestions based on local realities, including industrial revival, development of new industrial zones, reopening of closed sugar mills and establishment of distilleries to enhance export potential. “The government will give due consideration to these proposals,” he added. Emphasising structural reforms in market management, the minister said the government is planning to introduce an AI-based supply chain monitoring system to reduce price gaps from producers to retail levels. “This system will enable close monitoring of imports, stock, wholesale and retail stages, ensuring transparency and accountability in the market,” he said. A strategic reserve for import-dependent goods is being developed to face the situation in case of any global market volatility, Muktadir said, adding that this will help prevent shortages and maintain price stability even during international supply disruptions. Regarding the activities of the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB), he said a strong advisory council will be formed, comprising experts from both public and private sectors. “This will make TCB’s market interventions more effective, timely and targeted,” he said. Ahead of upcoming Eid-ul-Azha, the minister outlined a special plan for proper preservation of raw hide, saying efforts are underway to ensure that no hide goes to waste. Training will be provided through district and upazila administrations to mosque and madrasah stakeholders, he said. Government-supplied salt, awareness leaflets and media campaigns will also be used, he said, adding that transport of hides will be regulated for seven days after Eid to ensure local preservation. Stressing stronger roles of district administration in maintaining market stability, Muktadir said, “The administration and elected government will work together to keep supply chains active and protect consumer interests. This is our commitment.”