Photo: BSS

CHATTOGRAM, June 22, 2026 (BSS) - Commerce, Industries, Textiles and Jute Minister Khandoker Abdul Muktadir today said the government is considering modernization and technological upgrades at Chittagong Urea Fertilizer Limited (CUFL) to boost fertilizer production.

The minister made the remarks while visiting CUFL, a state-owned fertilizer factory located in Anwara upazila on the southern bank of the Karnaphuli River.

"Along with a team of experts, we are assessing the factory to identify the necessary technological and mechanical improvements needed to ensure optimum production," he said.

During the visit, the minister and the expert team also inspected the nearby Karnaphuli Fertilizer Company Limited (KAFCO), a multinational fertilizer producer, and the state-owned DAP Fertilizer Company Limited.

Referring to KAFCO, Muktadir said the factory's production capacity has declined significantly due to its ageing infrastructure and inadequate gas supply.

"Necessary measures will be taken to ensure an adequate supply of gas so that KAFCO can maintain uninterrupted and optimum production," he said.

The minister noted that KAFCO holds strategic importance for the country's fertilizer sector, as it remains one of the few plants capable of operating year-round despite gas supply constraints affecting the industry.

He said the government follows a priority-based gas distribution policy, with the power sector receiving first preference, followed by gas-dependent industries and fertilizer factories.

During the tour, the minister inspected various sections of the factories, planted a sapling on the premises and exchanged views with officials and employees.

Among those present were local lawmaker Sarwar Jamal Nizam, KAFCO Chief Corporate Officer Khawaza Saidur Rahman, CEO Abdullah Faruk, CUFL Managing Director Mizanur Rahman, General Manager Jasim Uddin, Administration Manager Kazi Aminul Haque, DAP Fertilizer Company Managing Director Moinul Haque and Operations Manager Alamgir Jalil.