Staff Correspondent :
Farhad Ahmed Akand, Chairman of the Bangladesh Jute Association, announced that nearly 1,500 crore taka worth of raw jute was exported from Bangladesh in the last fiscal year. He mentioned that in the past, jute exporters faced significant financial losses due to certain erroneous government policies. Despite these setbacks, exporters continued to export jute, prioritizing the country’s interest. This effort has contributed significantly to earning foreign currency and improving the country’s economic condition. He also stated that with proper government support and removal of existing obstacles, jute exports could increase even further in the upcoming fiscal year.
Farhad Ahmed Akand shared these insights on Saturday (November 30) during the 57th Annual General Meeting of the Bangladesh Jute Association, held at their office auditorium in Chashara, Narayanganj.
Highlighting several challenges, he said, “The Bangladesh Jute Association is the oldest exporters’ organization in the country. By exporting raw jute, we contribute significantly to earning foreign currency. The jute export sector still holds immense potential for Bangladesh. Last fiscal year, we exported 1.3 million bales of jute worth 1,450 crore taka.”
He further stated, “We aim to increase exports in the future with government support. To achieve this, we are encouraging farmers to produce more jute seeds. However, the lack of an efficient jute retting process remains a major challenge. Additionally, while other export sectors receive benefits like reduced VAT, tax exemptions, and subsidies, jute exporters have never enjoyed these facilities.”
Farhad Ahmed Akand revealed that the association has already raised several demands with the interim government and initiated discussions with the relevant ministries. He expressed hope that resolving these issues would make the jute export sector more dynamic and further strengthen the country’s economy. The annual general meeting was chaired by Farhad Ahmed Akand and attended by senior officials, including Senior Vice Chairman Gopal Chandra Talukder, executive committee members, general members, and staff of the organization.
