DHAKA, June 2, (V7N) – Commerce, Industries, Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir has announced a plan to transform the commerce ministry into an efficient and people-oriented institution within two years. He outlined four priority initiatives to be implemented in the coming days at a review meeting on the ministry's activities at the Secretariat.
The minister said the ministry's key agenda will focus on ensuring stability in market management, revitalising the tea industry, addressing post-LDC trade challenges, and adopting effective measures to control prices of essential commodities. He noted that even after 55 years of independence, Bangladesh has yet to establish an effective long-term framework for maintaining price stability of sensitive products.
Regarding the tea industry, Muktadir said it currently faces multiple challenges despite its past contributions to export earnings. He promised necessary steps to rebuild the industry on a stronger footing, with the government and private stakeholders working together to enhance the sector's capacity and competitiveness.
On trade issues, the minister said the ministry must ensure a smooth transition following Bangladesh's graduation from LDC status to a developing nation. Initiatives will be intensified to conclude Free Trade Agreements, Economic Partnership Agreements, and investment agreements with various countries, alongside training officials for international trade negotiations.
Muktadir also announced plans to transform the FBCCI into a modern resource centre by reviewing models from Turkey, Malaysia, and India. "Ministers and secretaries are not permanent, but institutions are permanent. Therefore, strengthening institutions is our main goal," he said, adding that collective efforts would develop the ministry into an effective institution for economic development.
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