Speakers at a discussion meeting on Monday called upon the businessmen and traders to shun the path of weight and measurement manipulation and refrain from manufacturing substandard products to help protect consumer rights.
They also suggested setting up the offices of Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) in all districts across the country to strengthen its monitoring and supervision at grassroots level.
According to them, collective efforts and public awareness are crucial to fighting against all kinds of food adulteration as well as weight and measurement manipulation.
The call and views came at a discussion meeting organised by the BSTI at its headquarters in the capital marking World Metrology Day.
The BSTI observed the World Metrology Day with an aim to create awareness among the people about the importance of measurements in everyday life.
Industries Minister Nurul Majid Mahmud Humayun addressed the meeting as the chief guest with Industries Secretary Md Abdul Halim in the chair.
State Minister for Industries Kamal Ahmed Majumder was present at the special guest while Director General (DG) of BSTI Md Muazzem Hossain gave a welcome address.
Speaking on the occasion, the industries minister said the people, who are manufacturing poor and substandard products, are under pressure due to stern action taken by BSTI.
To ensure the quality of products, he said, the BSTI has already established modern laboratories. It will set up more labs in near future, he added.
The minister also asked the BSTI officials to work with sincerity and honesty to ensure better service for the people.
Mr Halim said the national standards agency has already been able to improve its image at home and abroad by ensuring the quality of products through its modern laboratories.
He also said the agency is making its efforts to serve the interests of the country's people with its limited manpower.
The BSTI logo has already attained public trust, he added.
sajibur@gmail.com