Commerce Adviser Sk. Bashir Uddin joined a meeting as the chief guest at Jamia Madania Baridhara Madrasah in Dhaka. Photo: PID

DHAKA, June 2, 2025 (BSS) – Commerce Adviser Sk. Bashir Uddin has called upon Qawmi Madrasah scholars to play a proactive and responsible role in the collection, preservation and distribution of rawhides of sacrificial animal, stressing their importance as a valuable national resource.

Speaking as the chief guest at a meeting held at Jamia Madania Baridhara Madrasah in Dhaka on yesterday, the adviser highlighted the potential of rawhides saying that it would contribute significantly to the country’s economy if managed properly.

“Every year, a large number of animal skins are collected during Eid-ul-Adha, but a substantial portion is wasted due to mismanagement and lack of public awareness,” said Bashir Uddin.

“Religious leaders, the local administration and all stakeholders must work together to address this issue,” he added.

Noting the influential role of religious scholars in society, the advisor urged them to help raise awareness among the public to prevent wastage. 

He said the government has taken special measures this year to engage religious leaders in ensuring the efficient handling of sacrificial animals’ hides.

The adviser also shared updates on international trade developments, mentioning that the Chinese Commerce Minister is visiting Bangladesh with a business delegation. 

“We have discussed the export of raw hides and blue weight. The government has temporarily suspended the ban on hide exports for three months to allow for export opportunities,” he said.

“Although we prefer not to export raw hides, we may be forced to explore export option if fair prices are not ensured in the local market,” he added, noting that Bangladesh can supply up to 3.5 percent of the global demand for hides.

The meeting was chaired by Jamia Madania Baridhara Madrasah Muhtamim Mufti Monir Hossain Qasemi.

Dhaka Additional Deputy Commissioner Shamim Hossain, Khilgaon Madrasa Muhtamim Maulana Zahurul Islam, Dakshingaon Sabujbagh Madrasa Muhtamim Maulana Sabbir Ahmed, Mufti Jaber Qasemi, and Mufti Abdul Malek also spoke on the occasion.