Dhaka: Speakers at a seminar today put emphasis on creating an integrated roadmap to turn the leather sector into the next pillar of export growth. They also underscored the need for ensuring compliance and international certification to tap the potential in the export growth of leather goods.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, observations were made at a seminar titled “Sustainable Export Growth in Post LDC Era: Strategies for the Leather Sector” held at the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI). Industries Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan, speaking as the chief guest, highlighted the importance of international certification for competitiveness, noting that buyers offer lower prices to exporters lacking environmental certification. With only three Leather Working Group (LWG) certified tanneries in Bangladesh, Khan stated that the Ministry of Industries is working to create a supportive policy environment for long-term transformation.
Md. Hafizur Rahman, Administrator of FBCCI, noted that inbound foreign investment in the leather sector is low due to a lack of LWG certification. He advocated for the Central Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) as it is easier to operate and monitor collectively. He emphasized that maintaining environmental, social, and governance (ESG) compliance would facilitate obtaining LWG certificates and attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
Md. Saiful Islam, chairman of Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC), emphasized the need to increase the capacity of the CETP at Savar Tannery Park. He stated that a technical team is working to expand its capacity from 14,000 cubic meters to 20,000-25,000 cubic meters. Saiful called for adherence to compliance to prevent environmental pollution and suggested exploring new export destinations and modern technology in the leather sector.
DCCI President Taskeen Ahmed pointed out the leather sector’s potential for value addition and sustainable growth in the post-LDC era. He recommended green transformation, skills development, and public-private collaboration to make this sector a sustainable export pillar.
Apex Footwear Ltd’s MD, Syed Nasim Manzur, noted the incomplete operationalization of the CETP is hindering export growth. He projected that with incentives and policy support, the leather industry’s exports could reach $5 billion annually by 2030, and $10 billion by 2035.
Other speakers at the seminar included Dr. Nazneen Kawshar Chowdhury, Md. Ariful Hoque, Dr. Mohammed Mizanur Rahman, Salma Ahmed, Ziaur Rahman, Md. Nasir Khan, Ibnul Wara, Md. Nurul Islam, and M. Abu Hurairah. DCCI Senior Vice-President Razeev H Chowdhury and Vice President Md. Salem Sulaiman were also present.