Bangladesh's apex trade body urges govt for backward linkage policy

During the inaugural meeting of the Standing Committee on Backward Linkage Industry at FBCCI’s Motijheel office in capital Dhaka, chaired by Omar Faruk of Shenzhen Metal Industries Ltd., the director of the standing committee and attended by FBCCI’s senior vice-president Amin Helali, the urgent need for enhanced facilities was emphasised.

Amin Helali highlighted the vital role of backward linkage industries in the country’s economic growth and foreign exchange earnings, spanning from readymade garments to agriculture and leather.

Despite their significant contribution, these industries grapple with various challenges, notably the lack of direct export avenues.

The committee stressed the necessity of government cooperation and stakeholder involvement to address these challenges effectively. Helali noted the industry’s evolution from importing 100 per cent of materials for production to achieving self-sufficiency, even amidst disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic.

He underscored the sector’s resilience in maintaining exports despite import interruptions.

Furthermore, Helali urged the exploration of opportunities in the global packaging market, considering Bangladesh’s entrepreneurial talent and skilled workforce.

Despite possessing these strengths, the country has yet to fully capitalise on the packaging sector’s vast global market even as identifying the barriers preventing Bangladesh from tapping into this market was emphasized as a priority.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DR)