Bangladesh, Italy discuss leather sector cooperation

Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir and Italian Ambassador to Bangladesh Antonio Alessandro discussed a possible visit to Italy to attract greater Italian investment, expand technological cooperation and strengthen business partnerships in Bangladesh’s leather industry.
Prime minister’s Adviser on Economic and Planning Affairs Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir was also present at the meeting, held at the commerce minister’s office at the Bangladesh Secretariat on Wednesday, according to a press release.
Muktadir said the proposed visit would focus on attracting new investors, enhancing technological cooperation and expanding international partnerships in Bangladesh’s leather industry.
The Italian envoy proposed visits to Milan, Florence and Rome to showcase the capabilities, environmentally friendly production systems and investment opportunities in Bangladesh’s leather industry to Italian businesses and investors.

He said meetings with business organisations in Milan, visits to leather industrial areas in Tuscany from Florence, and government-level discussions in Rome could help establish effective engagement with potential investors.
The meeting also emphasised the importance of international-standard certification, effective environmental management and an investment-friendly environment in Bangladesh’s leather industry.
Alessandro said progress in these areas would help expand mutually beneficial partnerships between companies from the two countries.
Waste management at the Savar Leather Industrial Estate was also discussed. The Bangladesh side said large factories would be encouraged to establish their own waste-management facilities, while centralised facilities would be maintained for smaller factories. Plans are also being developed to promote the recycling and reuse of industrial waste.
The meeting also discussed the registration process for the Italy Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bangladesh.

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