Akij Tableware is elevating local craft to world-class excellence

When we chose to invest in Bangladesh's porcelain tableware sector, the industry was at a pivotal stage of transformation – moving from developing market toward international competitiveness. At that time, much of the domestic market relied on supplementary lower cost products to serve price sensitive consumers and local manufacturing had yet to reach the quality and consistency required by international buyers. We saw a clear opportunity—not just to grow our business, but to play an active role in developing a world-class tableware industry in Bangladesh. Our goal was ambitious: to produce tableware that could compete globally, while also catering to the tastes and needs of local consumers.

From the outset, our strategy has been holistic. We invested in technology-driven and energy-efficient production facilities, a robust quality control system, an in-house design house, a dedicated research and development team, and a composite packaging unit. Beyond infrastructure, we priorities the continuous development of our people and ensure that our facilities meet internationally recognized audit certifications. These steps have allowed us to become a sustainable supplier in a remarkably short period, gaining the trust of both domestic and international buyers.

Tableware is both functional and aesthetic. Striking a balance between international design trends and the preferences of local consumers requires careful attention. For our international clients, we primarily follow buyers' drawings and specifications, including size, shape, and suitability for different uses—often under private labelling agreements. When introducing similar designs in the domestic market, we adapt colors and patterns to suit local tastes. Sometimes, we even guide our consumers on how to use new items based on our own culinary habits. This approach allows us to "think globally and act locally," ensuring that our products resonate with both markets.

In the domestic market, our design process is shaped by local food culture and habits. Our design and research teams actively study global expos, food festivals, television shows, and HORECA (Hotel, Restaurant, Café) industry trends, while also listening closely to feedback from end consumers. Institutional buyers form another important segment of the domestic market, often purchasing tableware as gifts or souvenirs, which requires special attention to design and presentation. By understanding both individual and institutional needs, we ensure our products appeal to a wide range of consumers.

Exports of Bangladeshi ceramics continue to rise steadily. Our key markets include countries in the European Union and North America, with increasing demand from Scandinavia, the Middle East, and South America. Correct channel selection and partnerships with renowned private labelling clients have been crucial to expanding our global footprint. Participation in international trade fairs, both as exhibitors and visitors, strengthens our connections with B2B buyers and the HORECA segment. Reliable production lead times, social compliance management, and adherence to international certifications increase buyer trust. Ultimately; Reliability, production and design innovation, and competitive pricing remain the foundation of our global strategy.

Of course, there are challenges. Energy costs, raw material sourcing, and logistics continue to test the resilience of our operations. Guaranteed gas supply with consistent pressure is critical, as fluctuations can cause significant production losses. Introducing a pre-alert system for gas supply management could mitigate this risk. Competitive energy pricing and policies supporting alternative energy sources would further strengthen the industry. Most raw materials are imported, and some contain high moisture, making tariff adjustments an important long-term demand from industry leaders. Logistics improvements, including faster container pick-up and drop-off and enhanced port and customs efficiency, would reduce lead times and boost competitiveness.

Innovation and technology are reshaping global manufacturing, and we are committed to staying ahead. We have invested in isostatic presses for mass production, automatic glazing machines, advanced finishing processes, and energy-efficient firing kilns, all of which improve production success rates and reduce labor-intensive rework. Production planning automation optimizes output and minimizes overproduction. Two major ongoing investments plan are particularly exciting. First, we are developing tools for our isostatic press in-house, which were previously supplied by our German partner. This will increase flexibility, accelerate product development, and reduce production lead times. Second, we are introducing a digital printer that allows direct printing on products, ensuring precise design application and greater consistency.

Sustainability is also central to our strategy. We are developing green porcelain production, using a new body composition that incorporates broken or rejected items. Water is recycled, solar energy usage is increased, and we are transitioning to 100% eco-friendly packaging. These initiatives reflect our commitment to responsible manufacturing, ensuring that our growth does not come at the expense of the environment.

Looking ahead, I am confident that within the next ten years, Bangladesh will emerge as a regional sourcing hub for premium porcelain tableware. Our craftsmanship, quality, and cost competitiveness have already earned the trust of renowned international buyers. Innovation, branding, and sustainability will further strengthen our position. Specifically, for AKIJ Tableware, we aim to enhance our global brand identity, representing design excellence, and fully automate our production facilities for responsible manufacturing. We want "Made in Bangladesh" to be synonymous with both beauty and integrity, allowing our tableware industry to stand proudly on the world stage.