Rajshahi:Production has resumed at several state-owned factories that had been closed for years as part of a government initiative to revitalize idle industrial assets through public-private partnerships (PPP).
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, PRAN-RFL Group has leased several state-run industrial units under the PPP framework and restarted production at two factories in Rajshahi, providing employment for approximately 5,000 people, 90 percent of whom are women.
This initiative is part of the government's broader effort to reopen long-closed state-owned factories through private investment, aiming to boost production, employment, and the use of existing industrial infrastructure. PRAN-RFL Group Marketing Director Kamruzzaman Kamal stated that Barendra Rajshahi Textile Ltd and Rajshahi Jute Mills Ltd were taken on lease, and the manufacturing of footwear, luggage, ladies' bags, tents, and umbrellas has commenced at these facilities.
The products are being supplied to both the domestic market and exported to various countries. Kamal mentioned plans to expand production lines, potentially creating employment opportunities for an additional 15,000 people in the future.
Kamal also noted that PRAN-RFL Group received leases for two more jute mills under the Ministry of Textiles and Jute in August, with production at these sites expected to start soon. The handover occurred in the presence of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. He emphasized that reopening these factories through private investment facilitates the utilization of idle public assets while creating jobs and export opportunities.
The existing infrastructure, including electricity, gas, roads, and industrial buildings, allows investors to begin production more quickly and at lower costs compared to establishing new facilities. Applications were invited from private investors to reopen long-closed units, and PRAN-RFL received the factories on a 30-year lease after meeting the necessary conditions.
Kamal highlighted that these factories were once vital sources of livelihood for many. Their reopening is revitalizing economic activities in surrounding areas, benefiting local economies, small businesses, and families. He acknowledged the government's support in expediting processes and facilitating investment, including easier financing through Bangladesh Bank, which is crucial for expanding investment in these units.
Special emphasis is being placed on employing local residents, especially women, at the Rajshahi factories, providing job opportunities close to their homes and reducing the need to relocate to major cities like Dhaka. This employment is increasing household incomes and stimulating local markets. However, Kamal pointed out that some factories still face transportation and infrastructure challenges, urging authorities to improve road access to the Star Jute Mill in Khulna to encourage investment and enhance goods transportation.
He also stressed the importance of adequate financing for large-scale investment in these factories to attract more investors to these long-idle units.