Pollution has become the primary obstacle hindering the realisation of export potential in the Bangladesh leather and leather products industry.
As per reports, the Central Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) at the Tannery Industrial Estate in Hemayetpur, Savar, has not yet reached its maximum operational capacity, and there is a lack of a permanent dumping yard for solid waste disposal.
This pollution-related challenge is impeding the industry’s ability to obtain international quality certifications, limiting its access to the global market. As a consequence, Bangladesh is unable to fully tap into the export potential of its leather sector.
Despite these challenges, the Government has outlined plans to boost exports in the leather and leather products sector.
During the inaugural meeting of the new cabinet, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina issued directives to diversify exports and explore new markets for leather products.
Drawing parallels with the support provided to the readymade garment sector, the authorities are now contemplating special initiatives and assistance to promote exports of three specific commodities: leather and leather products, jute and jute products, and agricultural products.