Commerce, Industries, Textiles, and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between industry, academia, and the government to advance Bangladesh’s textile and jute sectors. Speaking at a symposium hosted by China’s Zhejiang Sci-Tech University at the Jute Diversification Promotion Centre (JDPC) in Dhaka, the minister highlighted the potential for enhancing Bangladesh’s textile education, research, and technological capabilities through international partnerships.
Muktadir underscored the importance of adapting to technology-driven global economies, emphasizing the necessity for students, teachers, and industry stakeholders to be well-versed in artificial intelligence, modern technologies, and digital management. He mentioned that the government is actively taking steps to align Bangladesh with global technological advancements.
Furthermore, the minister stressed the modernization of the country’s textile institutes and vocational education system to meet the demands of the contemporary world. Plans are in place to revamp the curricula of Bangladesh’s textile institutes in accordance with China’s advanced textile education system. Additionally, initiatives will be implemented to provide skills development opportunities through training by Chinese experts and facilitating advanced training programs for Bangladeshi faculty members in China.
Regarding the textile industry, Minister Muktadir acknowledged the significant earnings from the readymade garment sector but emphasized the potential for generating higher foreign currency revenues by focusing on high-value and value-added textile products. He proposed a shift towards man-made fibers and value-added products to enhance the sector’s profitability.
On the jute sector, Muktadir highlighted the cultural and emotional significance of jute in Bangladesh and called for increased productivity, innovation in product development, and the production of high-value jute goods. Collaborative research endeavors with China were suggested to boost jute productivity, introduce new technologies, and create value-added jute products.
The minister expressed optimism about leveraging China’s experience and technology to accelerate Bangladesh’s textile industry transformation. He emphasized the untapped potential of the jute sector, proposing the transformation of raw jute into blended fibers, fabrics, and high-value products to increase profitability and benefit jute farmers.
The symposium, themed “Costume, Culture, and Connection: A Bilateral Symposium on Traditional Attire and Cultural Exchange,” brought together key stakeholders from the Ministry of Textiles and Jute, Department of Textiles, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology, as well as academics, researchers, and entrepreneurs from the textile and apparel industries for a collaborative exchange of ideas and insights.
