The government has announced a series of new measures to regulate the collection, preservation, and marketing of cattle hides ahead of the upcoming festival of Eid-ul-Adha. The initiative has been taken to address recurring issues such as unfair pricing, alleged market manipulation, and inadequate storage capacity, which have historically disrupted stability in the leather supply chain.
The policy framework was presented by Khandaker Abdul Muktadir, Minister for Commerce, during a press briefing after the second day of the Deputy Commissioners’ Conference held at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka on Monday.
The minister stated that a coordinated national plan will be implemented to ensure market stability and improve the preservation of sacrificial hides. He added that strengthening the industrial base remains a key government objective, particularly through the revival of closed and financially weakened factories to increase production and expand employment opportunities.
Before the briefing, senior officials from the Ministries of Commerce, Industry, Textiles, and Jute met with Deputy Commissioners. The meeting focused on industrial revival, market regulation, and development proposals submitted by district-level authorities.
According to the minister, around 50 closed or financially struggling textile and jute mills are under consideration for phased privatisation. The government expects this process to attract private investment, improve productivity, and create employment. The target is to complete the process within one year.
Deputy Commissioners also submitted proposals including the reopening of sugar mills, establishment of new industrial zones, and setting up of distillery plants. These proposals are currently being reviewed by the government.
To improve market efficiency, the government plans to introduce a digital supply chain monitoring system. This system will track imports, storage, wholesale distribution, and retail sales. It will also use artificial intelligence-based tools to improve oversight, reduce price gaps, and enhance transparency across the supply chain.
The government is also preparing to establish a strategic reserve of essential commodities. This reserve is intended to help manage global supply disruptions and maintain stable prices in the domestic market during international volatility.
Key Government Measures
| Area | Action | Expected Result |
|---|---|---|
| Hide preservation | Training for mosque and madrasa representatives | Reduced wastage and improved storage |
| Supply chain monitoring | AI-based tracking system for goods movement | Greater transparency and price control |
| Industrial sector | Privatisation of about 50 distressed mills | Increased investment and job creation |
| Commodity security | Creation of strategic reserves | Protection against global shortages |
| Logistics control | Regulated transport of hides after Eid for seven days | Better local-level preservation |
The Trading Corporation of Bangladesh will also be strengthened through a new advisory council comprising experts from both public and private sectors. This body is expected to improve the speed and effectiveness of market intervention measures.
Ahead of Eid-ul-Adha, additional steps include government distribution of salt for hide preservation, public awareness campaigns, and nationwide media messaging. Authorities will also control hide transportation for seven days after the festival to ensure proper storage at the local level and reduce losses.
Officials have emphasised that coordination between local administrations and elected representatives will be essential to maintaining supply chain stability and protecting consumer interests during the seasonal market period.