Staff Correspondent

Textiles and Jute Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir on Saturday reaffirmed that the government is actively working to transform domestically produced jute into high-value-added products to boost foreign exchange earnings and revenue, while expanding non-garment export sectors like silk, handloom, and jute goods.

He made the observations as the chief guest at the inauguration of a six-day "Diversified Jute Products Fair" and a new permanent sales outlet, "JDPC EXPRESS," held at the Jute Diversification Promotion Center (JDPC) premises in Tejgaon, Dhaka.

"Jute, silk, and handloom are highly promising sectors beyond ready-made garments. To support their expansion, a permanent showroom is being launched at JDPC to promote products and create market opportunities for domestic and international buyers," Khandaker Muktadir said.

Responding to queries on diversification and export growth, the minister stated that a comprehensive plan is being developed jointly by JDPC and private sector trade associations. "Raw jute exports offer minimal value addition, but converting raw jute into sliver, packaging materials, and blended fibers can multiply its market value several times," he noted.

Detailing the economic potential, the minister explained that while raw jute fetched around $1,200 per tonne at peak market prices last year, processing it into packaging products increases its value to $2,400–$2,500 per tonne. Furthermore, blending jute with cotton or other fibers for high-value textiles can yield between $4,000 and $5,000 per tonne.

The six-day fair will run daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM through October 8, while "JDPC EXPRESS" will operate seven days a week from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Textiles and Jute Secretary Sharaf Uddin Ahmad Chowdhury, JDPC Managing Director Md. Zahid Hossain, and senior ministry officials were present at the event.