Bangladesh and China are set to enhance collaboration in research, technology, and knowledge-sharing to modernize the traditional silk industry for increased productivity and sustainability, according to Md Shariful Alam, the state minister for textiles and jute. He emphasized this during his speech at a conference on sericulture research and development in Rajshahi, underscoring the strategic partnership between the two countries.
Alam mentioned the government’s commitment to reopening state-owned industries as part of its electoral promises. Additionally, plans are in place to broaden market reach and attract investments, both locally and internationally. The event was jointly organized by the China-Bangladesh Silk Research Centre (CBSRC) and the Bangladesh Sericulture Development Board, with assistance from China’s Zhejiang Sci-Tech University.
The state minister outlined the government’s vision to modernize the entire silk value chain, encompassing mulberry cultivation, silkworm rearing, cocoon production, silk yarn manufacturing, weaving, product development, branding, and marketing. He stressed the significance of research and technological collaborations, highlighting China’s expertise in silk research and industrial advancements as pivotal to Bangladesh’s progress in the silk industry.
Alam expressed the intention to strengthen cooperation between Chinese research institutions, universities, the Bangladesh Sericulture Development Board, and relevant research organizations. Areas of collaboration may include the development of high-yielding mulberry varieties, climate-resilient silkworm breeds, disease and pest management, silk yarn production, quality testing, and value-added silk products.
The government aims to facilitate knowledge transfer from research to practical application by fostering partnerships among researchers, farmers, entrepreneurs, and industrial entities. Leveraging modern technology, skills development, and investments are part of the strategy to bolster the industry. Rajshahi, historically known as the “Silk City,” holds significant potential for rural employment, increased farm incomes, women’s empowerment, and overall economic growth.
Alam highlighted the geographical indication (GI) recognition of Rajshahi Silk and outlined plans to enhance its quality, product diversity, branding, and global market presence. Emphasizing the importance of environmental sustainability, he stressed the need to enhance productivity and competitiveness in the silk industry. The conference was attended by various dignitaries, including parliament member Abu Sayeed Chand, ministry secretary Sharaf Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury, board director general Md Toufiq Al Mahmud, and CBSRC chief coordinator Prof Nusrat Jahan Nipa, alongside academics, researchers, businessmen, and senior ministry officials.
