The government has no plans to export rawhide, said Commerce Minister Tofail Ahmed.
“Rawhide export will destroy country’s leather industry and government will do everything necessary for developing it,” he said while speaking to the media on Sunday.
“The crisis arose because tanner factories are yet to be fully operational in Savar. Central Effluent Treatment Plant is not ready either. Plot owners didn’t get their ownership deeds; not even bank loans. All these contributed to the complications created.”
The leather industry is among the top five exporters of Bangladesh, he said adding: “Last year, leather was announced the product of the year. Government is aware so that such a promising sector does not get destroyed.”
Responding to a query, Ahmed said, “We have talked with the leaders of Bangladesh Tanners Association. They will purchase hide despite the crisis that surfaced.”
“Since the banks are open after the holidays, transactions will run smoothly so the existing crisis will not linger,” he added.
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