Commerce Adviser Sk. Bashir Uddin spoke to journalists after visiting Rajarhat Market in Jashore today. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, June 9, 2025 (BSS) - Commerce Adviser Sk. Bashir Uddin today said that a huge anarchy had prevailed in the country's leather sector over the last 15 years during the previous regime, which led to a drastic fall in this sector.  

"But, the interim government has been working to dismantle the syndicate in this sector that had grown over the years," he said.

The Commerce Adviser said this while talking to journalists after visiting the activities related to the management of rawhides of sacrificial animals at Rajarhat in Jashore, known as the largest rawhide trading centre of the southern and western regions of the country. 

Bashir said initial priority was given to protecting the rights of the orphanages and madrasahs by ensuring fair price of rawhides. 

"Alongside this, we're also taking steps considering the overall future and interest of the country's leather sector," the adviser added.

Bashir mentioned that the government has been working across the country to dismantle the syndicate in the leather sector in a bid to rejuvenate the sector.

Besides, the Commerce Adviser said he himself has been visiting various parts of the country, while a control room is also active in this regard, said a press release issued by the Commerce Ministry. 

Listing various steps of the government to ensure fair price of rawhides, he said that the government has provided some 7.50 lakh maunds of salt to properly preserve the rawhides, while Taka 220 crore has been disbursed among the tannery owners ahead of the Holy Eid-ul-Azha to enhance their capacity.

Bashir said whatever steps this interim government has taken in the leather sector are unprecedented. It would be possible to reach the desired goal with concerted efforts from all. 

Jashore Deputy Commissioner Azhar Islam and Superintendent of Police Rownak Jahan were present.