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Sakhawat calls for U.S. Investment in Jute Sector
Textiles and Jute Adviser Brig Gen (Retd) Dr. M. Sakhawat Hussain called on the United States to invest in Bangladesh's jute industry, emphasizing its potential for growth and sustainability. During a courtesy meeting with U.S. Embassy Charge d'Affaires Helen LaFave at the Secretariat, he highlighted the jute sector's promise as a key area for foreign investment.
“I urge the United States to explore investment opportunities in our jute and jute products industries,” Sakhawat stated, noting the significant capacity for expansion in public jute and textiles mills across Bangladesh. He pointed out the country's abundant skilled labor force ready to support this sector.
He also stressed the growing global demand for jute products as an eco-friendly alternative to plastic, particularly in light of the government's recent ban on polythene and polypropylene bags in super shops effective October 1. “Jute and cloth bags will now replace plastic bags, promoting sustainability,” he added.
In addition to jute, Sakhawat, who also serves as Shipping Adviser, sought U.S. collaboration on building a dockyard at Matarbari Deep Seaport and urged investment in shipbuilding industries.
LaFave reaffirmed the commitment of both nations to strengthen trade ties and address the existing trade deficit, expressing optimism about future cooperation in various bilateral initiatives that align with mutual interests.