Leather industry to be turned into billion-dollar export sector: Commerce Minister

The country's leather industry will be transformed into a strong billion-dollar export-earning sector, Commerce, Industry, Textiles and Jute Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir has said.

The minister was speaking to journalists after attending the inaugural ceremony of the 47th National Science and Technology Week 2026 at the Sylhet District Stadium's Mohammad Ali Gymnasium on Friday, May 15.

The current problems of the country's leather industry have already been identified, and multiple discussions have been held with stakeholders for the sector's development, the minister said. Through necessary reforms, the leather industry can be placed in a strong position in the international market.

The current government is only two and a half months old, he said, adding that while major changes are not possible in such a short time, structural reforms are underway for the long term.

Emphasising public awareness to protect the leather industry, the minister said leather is an important resource for the country. Its wastage or damage should not be allowed under any circumstances, and everyone must play a responsible role from their respective positions.

Sylhet Divisional Commissioner Md Mashiur Rahman presided over the event. Special guests included Sylhet-3 MP Mohammad Abdul Malik, Sylhet Deputy Commissioner Md Sarwar Alam, and Sylhet City Corporation Administrator Abdul Kayum Chowdhury.