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Commerce Adviser Khandaker Abdul Muqtadir has said that all ship recycling yards in Bangladesh must become environmentally friendly and meet international standards, adding that no yard will be allowed to operate without a green licence.
He made the remarks on Monday (July 6) after visiting ship recycling yards in Sitakunda, Chattogram, and exchanging views with industry stakeholders.
The adviser said Bangladesh currently has 31 green-licensed ship recycling yards. All remaining yards will also have to ensure international compliance standards and obtain green licences to continue operations.
He said the government will provide necessary technical assistance to entrepreneurs who want to enter the ship recycling business under the required environmental and safety standards.
Muqtadir noted that the industry was once criticised for being environmentally harmful, labour-exploitative and having unsafe working conditions. However, he said green yards now follow scientific recycling methods and maintain high environmental and safety standards, which is a matter of national pride.
He expressed hope that Bangladesh would soon regain its leading position in the global ship recycling industry. Two years ago, the country handled around 40 to 45 percent of the world’s ship recycling, although its share has temporarily declined.
The adviser said the government is committed to resolving business, policy and administrative challenges facing the sector. Law and order-related issues, if any, will be referred to the relevant ministries and local authorities.
On the country’s energy situation, Muqtadir said Bangladesh is currently facing a daily gas shortage of around 1,600 MMCFD. Although supply cannot be increased immediately due to infrastructure limitations, the government is working on new projects and feasibility studies to boost gas supply as quickly as possible.
During the visit, the commerce adviser toured three ship recycling yards in Sitakunda. Officials, including Bangladesh Ship Breakers and Recyclers Association (BSBRA) President Mohammad Mohsin, were also present.