Govt working to boost capacity of leather industry: Minister

Industries Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir on Saturday said the government is working to increase the capacity of the leather industry with support from the European Union (EU).

"We are determined to take the leather industry to a strong position. It must be developed in a way that makes it attractive to the European and American markets," he said.

The minister made the remarks while speaking to reporters after visiting the Central Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) at the BSCIC Industrial City tannery area in Harindhara, Savar, on Saturday afternoon, reports UNB.

He said the CETP would be properly made operational and work was underway to enhance its capacity with EU assistance.

Describing leather as a highly potential export sector, he said the government wants to help the industry achieve its expected targets.

Muktadir said the leather sector had long been neglected, particularly after the relocation of tanneries from Hazaribagh to Savar, which hindered the industry from progressing as expected.

"This sector has suffered greatly over the years. If the entire volume of leather produced in the country could be exported throughout the year, export earnings could reach as much as $12 billion," he said.

The minister also said all problems related to the CETP would be resolved at any cost to protect the country's rivers and environment.