Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir has said there is no possibility of smuggling sacrificial animal hides this year.
He made the remarks in the afternoon after inspecting raw hide purchase and sale activities in the Aminbazar area of Savar. He spoke to journalists on the spot.
The minister said most hides this year can be preserved and sent to tanneries in greater numbers compared to previous years. He added that the government plans to turn the system into a permanent infrastructure in the future.
He said wet blue leather cannot be exported in raw form. He explained that greater value and employment can be created if hides are turned into finished products such as shoes, belts and other goods before export.
Muktadir said the government aims to increase foreign exchange earnings and employment through exporting processed leather products.
He also said the government wants to ensure proper preservation of all Eid sacrificial hides in the future by resolving problems at the Savar CETP. He added that hides must not get damaged.
The minister said officials are working continuously at collection points where hides are gathered. He added that there is no scope for smuggling.
He also said traders who apply salt to hides before selling will get better prices.
During the visit, he held open discussions with hide traders, buyers and sellers.
Meanwhile, hides started entering tannery factories at the Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC) leather industrial city in Savar from the afternoon.
