Accra:The Minister of Commerce, Industries and Textiles and Jute, Khandaker Abdul Muktadir, emphasized that the development of Bangladesh's jute sector requires advanced technology and research more than financial investment. Speaking at a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony, he highlighted the country's need for China's support in modern technology and research to improve jute seed production and fiber yield, and to manufacture high-value diversified jute products.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the MoU was signed between the Jute Diversification Promotion Center (JDPC) and China's Jiangnan University. The minister stressed that Bangladesh aims to export high-value products by adopting modern technology in jute processing and value addition. He noted the importance of enhancing technological capabilities from seed production to developing diversified jute products, suggesting that partnerships with Chinese research institutions could be pivotal.
Under the agreement, JDPC and Jiangnan University will collaborate to expand jute uses, improve seed quality, and apply research-based technologies in the textile sector. The Dean of the School of Textile Engineering at Jiangnan University discussed the potential of Bangladesh's jute and textile sectors, mentioning visits to Bangladesh to understand industrial requirements. He proposed establishing a joint laboratory for effective research application.
The Chinese delegation expressed a desire to develop a research platform with Bangladesh's top educational institutions to facilitate innovation in the jute and garment sectors. The collaboration aims to enhance skills in production methods, design, and quality control, benefiting small and medium enterprises and improving the competitiveness of Bangladesh's jute products in the international market.