Govt aims to turn jute sector into $7b industry

Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir said on Tuesday that the government aims to transform the country’s jute sector into a strong $5 billion to $7 billion industry through proper planning, modern technology, research, improved seed production and the expansion of diversified jute products.
He made the remarks while inaugurating the Multi-purpose Jute Products Fair-2026 at the Jute Diversification Promotion Centre in Farmgate, Dhaka.

The event was presided over by Textiles and Jute Secretary Abdun Naser Khan, while State Minister for Textiles and Jute Md Shariful Alam attended as special guest.

The minister said that in the 1972-73 fiscal year, nearly 90 per cent of Bangladesh’s export earnings came from jute and jute goods. At the time, the country’s total export income stood at $348 million, of which the jute sector contributed $313 million.

“Although Bangladesh’s annual export earnings have now risen to around $50 billion to $55 billion, the contribution of the jute sector remains limited to nearly $1 billion,” he said, adding that the government has adopted time-befitting plans to unlock the sector’s untapped potential.

Muktadir said achieving self-sufficiency in quality jute seed production is the government’s first priority for ensuring sustainable growth in the sector.

Bangladesh currently depends on imports to meet its annual demand for nearly 6,000 tonnes of jute seeds, he said, adding that steps would be taken to reduce dependency by ensuring local production of high-quality seeds.

The minister also stressed the importance of diversifying jute products, developing innovative designs and expanding access to high-value markets in order to ensure fair prices for farmers.

“To achieve this, investment in research, innovation and technological development will be increased,” he added.

He further said the government is planning joint initiatives with leading Chinese universities to enhance cooperation in increasing productivity in the jute and leather sectors, developing improved seeds, creating new products and producing internationally competitive designs.

The minister said a comprehensive roadmap is being prepared in coordination with the Jute Diversification Promotion Centre and private-sector stakeholders.

Speaking as special guest, State Minister for Textiles and Jute Md Shariful Alam said collective efforts are needed to advance the economic and social transformation of the jute industry.

“Only then will jute regain its past glory, earn huge foreign currency and improve the socio-economic condition of jute farmers and all those involved in the sector across the country.”

After the programme, the minister and state minister visited different stalls at the fair and exchanged views with entrepreneurs on the prospects, market expansion and existing challenges of jute products.
The five-day fair will remain open to visitors every day from 10am to 9pm until 23 May.