Salt syndicates threaten tannery industry

The recurring surge in salt prices ahead of Eid-ul-Azha once again highlights a serious threat to Bangladesh's rawhide industry. Every year, millions of sacrificial animal hides are collected during the festival, making a significant contribution to the country's leather sector and export earnings. However, this valuable resource continues to suffer because of artificial salt shortages and market manipulation.

Salt is essential for preserving rawhide. Without proper and timely preservation, hides quickly deteriorate, resulting in substantial financial losses for traders, tannery workers, and the industry as a whole. Reports from various parts of the country indicate that salt prices rise abnormally during the Eid season, placing small traders under immense pressure. Many are unable to purchase sufficient salt, leading to the wastage of hides that could otherwise generate considerable economic value.

Although the government and various organisations occasionally take initiatives to supply salt at affordable prices, these measures often fail to reach grassroots traders effectively. The authorities therefore must take effective steps to ensure stable salt prices, prevent artificial crises and provide necessary support to those involved in rawhide collection and preservation.

Protecting the rawhide sector is not merely a seasonal concern; it is an economic necessity for Bangladesh.

Mysha Siddika

Student

University of Dhaka

mysha292004@gmail.com