Jute export earnings increase 20% in first half of FY20

The earnings from jute and jute goods export were $616.2 million during July-January of the current fiscal year – 20.82 percent higher than that of last fiscal year's same period.

During the last season, 74.46 lakh bales of jute was produced in Bangladesh.

"The government played a big part in ensuring the fair price of jute. To make the buying and selling of jute easier, it developed a text message-based system. The government also increased the incentive for and internal use of jute products," said Textiles and Jute Minister Golam Dastagir Gazi.

At a press briefing on Thursday, Golam Dastagir talked about the sector's achievement and the programmes to be held to celebrate the National Jute Day this year. "In the backdrop of environmental hazards caused by overuse of polythene and plastic, a new interest in the use of the natural fibres has arisen."

"This has also created a possibility for reclaiming the glory of the golden fibre by increasing production and use of environment-friendly jute goods. In line with this, different initiatives had been taken through the Jute Diversification Promotion Centre. "

Currently, 700 entrepreneurs are manufacturing 282 types of jute products in the country.

Golam Dastagir said the government had taken adequate measures to expand the jute industry and encourage jute farmers.

The National Jute Day will be observed on Friday with the slogan "Sonali Ansher Sonar Desh, Mujib Borshe Bangladesh (Golden Country of Golden Fibre, Bangladesh in Mujib Year)".

To celebrate the National Jute Day, a fair of diversified jute goods will be held during March 6-10 at the Officers' Club Dhaka. Besides, 11 individuals and organisations will be awarded for their contribution to research on jute, its increased production, use, and diversified jute product export.

Golam Dastgir Gazi will be present as the chief guest of the inauguration ceremony of the National Jute Day. Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi, State Minister for Labour and Employment Begum Monnujan Sufian, Chairman of Parliamentary Standing Committee on Textiles and Jute Ministry Mirza Azam will also attend the programme as special guests.