Photo : PID

SYLHET, Feb 20, 2026 (BSS) – Commerce, Industries and Textiles and Jute Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir today stated that while the government faces mountainous challenges at both the state and ministerial levels, efforts have already begun to address them, with results expected to be visible in the coming days. 

Speaking to journalists after offering prayers at the shrine of Hazrat Shahjalal (RA), the Minister highlighted that the country's commercial infrastructure and economic ecosystem were destroyed over the last 15 years. 

He noted that the banking sector has been left in disarray, and the economy lacked the necessary stimulus for growth and investment.

He mentioned that investment had been stagnant for the past 12 to 13 years, reaching zero over the last three years.

Addressing the urgent need for employment, the Commerce Minister pointed out that 20 to 22 lakh individuals enter the workforce annually, yet the required investment for their employment has not materialized during the period of stagnation.

Furthermore, he mentioned that many local institutions are currently under pressure due to changes in the tariff structure, and the government is working to create an investment-friendly environment to support industrial growth.

Regarding local development, Muktadir expressed a deep sense of responsibility toward the region. 

“Plans for Sylhet include addressing longstanding issues such as drug abuse, improving tourism infrastructure, and creating employment opportunities to ensure qualitative development for the people,” he added.

Accompanying him, Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury assured that steps would be taken to quickly reopen closed industrial factories.

He added that development plans for Sylhet would be formulated in consultation with local Members of Parliament (MP) to demonstrate the government's capability through action.

The ministers also visited the shrines of Hazrat Shahparan (RA) and Gazi Burhan Uddin (RA) before attending an Iftar Mahfil at the Islamnagar Mosque later in the day.