রবিবার, ২৪ মে ২০২৬, ১২:৪৯ পূর্বাহ্ন
DHAKA, May 23, 2026 (BSS) – The Leather Industry Development Foundation of Bangladesh (LIDFB) has proposed the establishment of modern leather collection centres, expansion of the use of leather goods in the domestic market, and stronger international marketing initiatives to enhance the competitiveness of the country’s leather industry in global markets.
The proposals were placed at a discussion titled “Leather Industry in Crisis: Exploring Ways to Overcome Challenges” held at the auditorium of the Economic Reporters Forum (ERF) in the capital today.
LIDFB Convener Sadat Hossain Selim, Member Secretary M Mofazzal Ibne Mahfuz and other stakeholders from the leather business sector attended the discussion.
As part of its 13-point recommendations, the organisation called for establishing modern leather collection centres equipped with improved facilities and temporary cold storage units in different regions of the country to reduce wastage and preserve the quality of sacrificial animal rawhides during the Holy Eid-ul-Azha.
The organisation also proposed forming a separate “Leather Ministry” or a stronger “Leather Board” to develop the leather industry into one of the country’s leading export sectors.
LIDFB stressed the need for business-friendly and simplified banking policies and emphasised the rehabilitation of tannery owners affected by ongoing industry challenges.
The recommendations highlighted the importance of increasing awareness to boost the domestic use of leather products at both public and private levels. Educational institutions, government offices and other organisations were urged to encourage the use of locally produced leather goods.
To expand international market access and attract new buyers, the organisation underscored the need for greater participation in overseas trade fairs, exhibitions and marketing activities.
It also proposed easier certification facilities to ensure international standards and increased policy support for exporters to strengthen global competitiveness.
The recommendations further noted that ensuring the quality of raw hides would require modern management practices at every stage, from slaughtering to preservation, while greater emphasis should be placed on improving livestock and veterinary services.
The organisation also demanded easy-term bank loans and financing facilities for small and medium entrepreneurs, alongside special export incentives for the sector.
In addition, it sought enhanced policy support for importing raw materials and machinery required for leather processing and manufacturing.
LIDFB proposed establishing a “Leather Footwear City” or specialised industrial park to increase production, exports and employment in the leather and leather goods sector.
The discussion also called for coordinated efforts between the government and private sector to strengthen skilled manpower development, research and innovation, and further expand international market opportunities for the industry.
