Cox's bazar: Secretary of the Ministry of Industries Md Obaidur Rahman has declared that the government will firmly prohibit the importation of food salt, emphasizing a commitment to stringent actions against any such efforts. The announcement highlights the government's intent to achieve self-sufficiency in salt production, focusing on safeguarding the interests of both marginal salt farmers and salt mill owners.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the statement was made during an annual review meeting with local salt mill owners at the Cox's Bazar District Commissioner's office. Organized jointly by the District Administration and Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC), the meeting was presided over by Deputy Commissioner Md. Abdul Mannan. It saw participation from BSCIC Chairman Md. Saiful Islam, Additional Deputy Commissioner Nizamuddin Ahmed, senior government officials, and leaders from the salt mill owners and marginal salt farmer associations.
The discussions centered on vital aspects of the salt industry, including existing salt stock levels, establishing a fair pricing mechanism, and addressing challenges faced by stakeholders. The meeting also explored the broader prospects of the salt industry. Md Obaidur Rahman noted that participants shared diverse opinions on setting a fair price for salt at the field level, assuring that these suggestions would be reviewed by senior government officials to reach a conclusive price-setting arrangement.
In efforts to enhance industry infrastructure, Rahman announced plans for a salt preservation warehouse in Cox's Bazar, conditional on acquiring suitable land for the facility. He also addressed public safety concerns linked to the transportation of salt, promising discussions with relevant departments to tackle accidents caused by salt water spills on highways.