No ‘Green Licence’, No Ship Recycling Commerce Minister

In a major push to align the country’s shipbreaking sector with global environmental standards, Commerce and Industry Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir announced yesterday that no entity will be allowed to operate in the ship recycling industry in the future without obtaining a “Green Licence.”

The Minister assured that the government remains fully committed to providing all necessary technical and policy support to help local businesses comply with these strict green licensing requirements.

The landmark announcement came during a press briefing following the Minister’s extensive visit to several ship recycling yards in Sitakunda on Monday.

“Bangladesh was once a global leader in the ship recycling industry,” Muktadir stated, emphasizing the administration’s renewed focus on restoring the nation’s premier position on the international stage.

According to the Minister, 31 ship recycling yards have already successfully secured their green licences.

He urged the remaining operators to step up and meet the required standards, reiterating that the state will extend comprehensive technical support to facilitate the transition.

Addressing the historical challenges of the sector, Muktadir acknowledged past allegations concerning environmental pollution, labour exploitation, and hazardous working conditions.

However, he highlighted a significant turnaround, noting that ship recycling operations are now being carried out scientifically at green yards in full compliance with international safety and environmental benchmarks.

The Minister also issued a stern warning against any disruptions to the sector, stating that the government would take strict action if ship recycling businesses faced any law and order problems.

“If necessary, the relevant ministries, law enforcement agencies, and local administrations will be directed to take appropriate measures,” he added.

Touching upon broader industrial challenges, Muktadir also acknowledged the country’s ongoing energy crisis, noting that the shortage of natural gas has remained a long-standing hurdle for heavy industries.

Mohammad Mohsin Chowdhury, President of the Bangladesh Ship Breakers and Recyclers Association (BSBRA), along with top leaders of the Ship Recycling (Ship Breaking) Industry Owners Association, accompanied the Minister during the inspection.