Govt working to regain top spot in global ship recycling, says minister

CHATTOGRAM, July 06: The government is working to restore Bangladesh's position as the world's leading ship recycling nation by promoting environmentally compliant ship recycling yards and addressing the policy and operational challenges facing the industry, Industries Minister Khandaker Abul Moktadir said on Monday.
Speaking to reporters after visiting the PHP Ship Breaking and Recycling Yard in Sitakunda, he said the sector has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, overcoming longstanding criticism over environmental and labour standards.
"There was a time when ship recycling was viewed negatively because of environmental concerns, labour exploitation and poor working conditions. Today's reality is completely different," he said.
"The scientific methods, high compliance standards and environmentally sound practices we have seen here are something the country can be proud of," he added.
The minister said the government wants all ship recycling yards to obtain green certification and operate in line with internationally accepted environmental and occupational safety standards. He noted that Bangladesh recycled nearly 45 per cent of the world's end-of-life ships just two years ago, making it the global leader before slipping to second place.
"We temporarily lost our top position. Inshallah, we will regain the number one position again," he said. After visiting the recycling yard, the minister held a meeting with leaders of the Bangladesh Ship Breakers and Recyclers Association (BSBRA), where they discussed challenges facing the sector.
Bangladesh Ship Recycling Board (BSRB) DG AKM Shafiul Alam Talukder, BSBRA president Mohammad Mohsin Chowdhury and vice president Nur Uddin Rubel were present at the meeting.

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