Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin said on Monday 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 decline in the industry.
"But the interim government has been working to dismantle the syndicate in this sector that had developed over the years," he said.
The commerce adviser made the comment while speaking to journalists after visiting activities related to the management of rawhides of sacrificial animals at Rajarhat in Jessore, known as the largest rawhide trading centre in the southern and western regions of the country.
Bashir said that initial priority had been given to protecting the rights of orphanages and madrasahs by ensuring fair prices for rawhides.
"Alongside this, we're also taking steps considering the overall future and interests of the country's leather sector," the adviser added.
He mentioned that the government has been working across the country to dismantle the leather sector syndicate in an effort to rejuvenate the industry.
In addition, the commerce adviser noted that he has personally been visiting various parts of the country, and a control room is also active in this regard, according to a press release issued by the Commerce Ministry.
Listing various government steps to ensure fair prices for rawhides, he said the government has provided around 7.5 lakh maunds of salt to properly preserve the rawhides, while Tk220 crore has been disbursed among tannery owners ahead of Eid-ul-Azha to enhance their capacity.
Bashir said that the steps taken by the interim government in the leather sector are unprecedented.
With concerted efforts from all, it would be possible to reach the desired goal.
Jessore Deputy Commissioner Azhar Islam and Superintendent of Police Rownak Jahan were present.
