The Secretary of the Ministry of Industries, Md Obaidur Rahman, stated on Tuesday that the government will not permit the import of food salt under any circumstances. He emphasized that strict actions would be taken against any attempts to bypass this directive.
Speaking at the annual review meeting with local salt mill owners in Cox’s Bazar, Rahman highlighted the government’s goal of achieving self-sufficiency in salt production. He assured that the ministry would take all necessary steps to protect the interests of both marginal salt farmers and salt mill owners, ensuring a sustainable and profitable industry.
The meeting, organized by the District Administration and Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC), was presided over by Deputy Commissioner Md. Abdul Mannan. Key attendees included BSCIC Chairman Md. Saiful Islam, Additional Deputy Commissioner Nizamuddin Ahmed, senior government officials, and representatives from the salt mill owners and farmers’ associations.
The meeting focused on critical issues within the industry, including current salt stock, pricing, challenges faced by stakeholders, and future prospects. Rahman noted that various suggestions had been made regarding fair pricing at the field level and assured that these would be reviewed at the senior government level to finalize appropriate measures.
In line with strengthening the industry, Rahman also proposed establishing a salt preservation warehouse in Cox’s Bazar, contingent on land acquisition for the facility. Furthermore, he addressed concerns over public safety regarding the transportation of salt. He pledged to work with relevant authorities to mitigate accidents caused by saltwater spillage on highways, which often lead to slippery road conditions.
