Panchagarh: Industries, Commerce, Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir today announced the government’s firm commitment to reopening the country’s closed state-owned sugar mills. He emphasized that decisions would be made with a focus on benefiting sugarcane farmers, workers, and ensuring the long-term commercial viability of the mills.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister expressed these intentions during a view-exchange meeting with sugarcane farmers at the premises of Panchagarh Sugar Mills Limited, where he served as the chief guest. Muktadir highlighted that these mills are valuable national assets and it is the government’s responsibility to ensure their efficient and honest utilization.
He further stated that the reopening of these industrial units would not only resume production but also create employment opportunities and boost local economies. Muktadir noted that several sugar mills are currently non-operational, while others are facing various challenges. He pointed out the necessity of modernizing and upgrading these mills, as most of them are over 50 to 70 years old.
The minister outlined plans for reopening some mills with new machinery installations and infrastructural renovations while considering alternative strategies for others. He assured that the interests of sugarcane farmers, workers’ employment, and profitable management would be prioritized in every case.
Highlighting the broader economic implications, Muktadir stated that a functioning factory generates employment not only for its direct workforce but also creates opportunities through various economic activities linked to it. Reopening the closed mills is crucial for boosting economic activities and reducing poverty, he added.
The event was chaired by the Chairman of Bangladesh Sugar and Food Industries Corporation (BSFIC), Md Jahangir Alam. Panchagarh-1 constituency lawmaker Barrister Muhammad Nowshad Zamir and Industries Ministry Secretary Md Obaidur Rahman participated as special guests. Other attendees included BSCIC Chairman Md Saiful Islam, Panchagarh Deputy Commissioner Mst. Shukria Parvin, District Council Administrator Md Towhidul Islam, Additional Superintendent of Police Md Farhad Hossain, and Panchagarh Sugar Mills Limited Manager Atikuzzaman, along with representatives of sugarcane farmers, labor leaders, and local dignitaries.
Panchagarh Sugar Mills Limited, established between 1966 and 1969, began full-scale production in 1969-70 and is currently operated under the BSFIC.