The government of Bangladesh has decided to bring six closed jute mills back into operation under private management within the next six months, aiming to revive the country’s once-strong jute industry and expand employment opportunities, according to officials.
The announcement was made by Textiles and Jute Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir during a press briefing held at the ministry’s conference room in the Secretariat on Thursday.
Earlier in the day, an emergency meeting was held at the ministry with stakeholders to discuss the future of closed jute mills, including options for reopening and leasing them out to private operators.
The meeting was attended by State Minister for Textiles and Jute Md Shariful Alam and BIDA Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, among others.
The minister said the decision is part of a phased plan to restart or lease out remaining closed jute mills.
He added that involving the private sector is expected to improve efficiency, attract investment, and strengthen production capacity in the jute sector.
Officials believe that reopening the mills will not only help revive a key export-oriented industry but also generate new job opportunities for workers affected by earlier shutdowns. The initiative is also expected to contribute to boosting jute exports, which remain an important component of Bangladesh’s agricultural and industrial economy.
Authorities indicated that further steps will be taken in phases to ensure a structured revival of the sector, with emphasis on sustainable operations and private sector participation.
