Labour and Employment Affairs Secretary AHM Shafiquzzaman. File Photo

SAVAR, July 17, 2025 (BSS) - Labour and Employment Secretary AHM Shafiquzzaman today laid emphasize on harnessing the immense potential of Bangladesh’s tannery sector to significantly contribute to the national economy. 

He made this remark as the chief guest at a workshop titled “Shaping the Future of Tanneries in Bangladesh” at   Hemayetpur tannery industrial area here, according to a press release.

The secretary also stressed the need to ensure decent working conditions in the tannery industry in accordance with international labour standards in order to achieve a leading position in the global market.

He added that operations must be conducted following the standards set by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the European Union (EU), ensuring fair wages, health protection, and workplace safety for all workers.

The event was organized under the “Good Working Conditions in Tanneries (GOTAN)” project by the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments (DIFE).

The Secretary also noted that one of the main strengths of Bangladesh’s tannery and leather goods sector is the domestic availability of raw materials. “By adding value to the hundreds of thousands of hides produced annually through modern technology and efficient management, the sector can become a major export-oriented industry—similar to the ready-made garments sector,” he added.

Speaking as a special guest, DIFE Inspector General Omar Md. Imrul Mohsin said that sustainable development in the tannery industry requires the collective efforts of owners, workers, and all relevant stakeholders. 

He reiterated the government’s commitment to fulfilling its legal responsibilities to ensure effective management and a just work environment in the sector.

Ulrich Kleppmann, Head of Development Cooperation at the German Embassy, highlighted Germany’s continued support for Bangladesh’s development over the past five decades. He reaffirmed that this cooperation will persist in the future, noting that Bangladesh possesses valuable resources and great potential, which, if properly utilized, could lead to greater economic prosperity.

The welcome address was delivered by Md. Matiur Rahman, Deputy Inspector General of DIFE and Director of the GOTAN project.

The workshop brought together representatives of tannery workers and owners, national and international development partners, government officials, and industry experts.