Dhaka: Industries Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan today emphasized that the green shipbuilding sector could evolve into Bangladesh’s next major foreign exchange earner, following the success of the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) industry. He articulated this vision during his keynote address at a seminar titled “Green Shipbuilding: A New Frontier for Export Diversification,” held at a city hotel.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the seminar was organized by the International Business Forum of Bangladesh (IBFB) and featured distinguished guests including Dr. Anisuzzaman Chowdhury, the Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant for Finance, and Dr. Zaidi Sattar, Chairman and CEO of the Policy Research Institute (PRI), who provided insights through a presentation.
Adilur Rahman Khan highlighted the potential of green shipbuilding as a transformative force, both economically and environmentally. “If the garment sector is our first great leap into global trade, green shipbuilding can be our next great leap-delivering both economic growth and environmental stewardship,” he stated. He envisioned eco-friendly, low-emission vessels bearing the “Made in Bangladesh” brand as a feasible achievement if proactive measures are taken.
The adviser underscored the growing global demand for green ships, stating that they are swiftly becoming a standard in maritime industries. He identified Bangladesh as a potential leader in South Asia for sustainable shipbuilding, which could generate high-skilled jobs and contribute to combating climate change.
Adilur also pointed to the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) targets for reducing carbon emissions by 40% by 2030 and 70% by 2050. He stressed that the shipping industry now requires cleaner, fuel-efficient vessels and that Bangladesh could capitalize on this by developing energy-efficient designs and adopting sustainable materials.
To support this burgeoning industry, Adilur announced strategic plans involving the Ministry of Industries, emphasizing the creation of more facilities and international partnerships. He called for collaboration with the Ministry of Shipping, Ministry of Environment, and other stakeholders to ensure favorable regulations and an investment-friendly environment.
The adviser concluded by urging entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators to spearhead the transformation, advocating for shipyards to obtain global green certifications and leverage renewable energy. The IBFB was highlighted as a key facilitator in connecting industry players, policymakers, financiers, and global markets.
The seminar also featured remarks from IBFB President Lutfunnisa Saudia Khan, Director Engr. Md Sakhawat Hossain, and Immediate Past President Humayun Rashid, who shared their insights and support for the green shipbuilding initiative.