Industries Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir on Saturday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to reopening closed state-owned sugar mills, ensuring the welfare of sugarcane farmers, workers, and the long-term profitability of the mills.
“The mills are assets of the people of Bangladesh, and it is the government’s responsibility to ensure their honest and effective use. We want the closed factories to resume production, create employment opportunities, and contribute to revitalising local economies,” he stated.
The minister made these remarks during a views-exchange meeting with sugarcane farmers at the premises of Panchagarh Sugar Mills Limited, where he was the chief guest.
A number of sugar mills across the country remain closed, while many operational mills are facing various limitations, he said.
Emphasising the importance of modernisation and renovation, he noted that many of the mills are between 50 and 70 years old, and the introduction of new technologies is vital for their effective revival. “Some mills will require the installation of new machinery, while others will need infrastructure renovation or alternative operational plans,” he added.
Minister Muktadir further highlighted that functional industrial establishments not only generate direct employment but also create economic opportunities for many through related activities.
“When employment increases, money circulation in people’s hands rises, local economies become more active, and poverty declines. With that goal in mind, the government is advancing efforts to revive industries,” he said.
Chairman of Bangladesh Sugar and Food Industries Corporation (BSFIC) Md Jahangir Alam, Panchagarh-1 MP Barrister Nawshad Zamir, Industries Secretary Md Obaidur Rahman, BSCIC Chairman Md Saiful Islam, Panchagarh Deputy Commissioner Mosammat Shukria Parvin, and District Council Administrator Md Touhidul Islam were also present at the event.
Representatives from sugarcane farmers, labour leaders, and local dignitaries attended the programme as well.
Panchagarh Sugar Mills Limited, established between 1966-69 with a daily crushing capacity of 1,016 metric tonnes, began commercial production in 1969-70. The mill is currently operated under the Bangladesh Sugar and Food Industries Corporation.
