‘Steps taken to reopen closed sugar mills’

The government has initiated steps to reopen several closed state-owned sugar mills in an effort to increase domestic sugar production, Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir said on Saturday.
Bangladesh currently has 15 state-owned sugar mills, of which only six are operational, said Muktadir, who also holds the portfolios of industries, textiles and jute.

He made the remarks after visiting Panchagarh Sugar Mills Limited and exchanging views with local sugarcane farmers.

According to a statement from the commerce ministry, initiatives are also under way to revive a number of other state-owned industrial enterprises across the country.

The minister said the government would take decisions on reopening mills while ensuring the interests of sugarcane farmers, workers and the long-term sustainability of the factories.

“These mills are public assets, and it is the government’s duty to ensure their proper and productive use. We want to restart production, create jobs and strengthen local economic activities,” he said.

Muktadir noted that many sugar mills have remained closed for years, while several operational mills are running at limited capacity. He added that most of the factories are between 50 and 70 years old, making modernisation and technological upgrading essential for their revival.

He further said some mills may require new machinery to resume operations, while others would need major infrastructure renovation or alternative restructuring plans.

The minister stressed that the government would prioritise employment for workers, the interests of farmers and profitable management in all revival initiatives.

He also highlighted the broader economic impact of industrial operations, saying functioning mills generate both direct and indirect employment and contribute to poverty reduction.

Muktadir said Panchagarh Sugar Mill, which has been closed for a long period, now requires extensive repair and renovation of its infrastructure and machinery.

He added that expert opinions are being taken into account and all possible options are currently under review.