Bangladesh is on the verge of transforming its leather and footwear sector into one of the most valuable contributors to its export economy.
According to Commerce and Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, the industry holds significant potential for export diversification and growth.
Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Dr. Ahmed emphasized that the leather industry has both “prospects and problems,” but with the right approach, it could become a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s export basket.
During a meeting with the Bangladesh Finished Leather, Leather Goods and Footwear Exporters Association and the Bangladesh Tanners Association, Dr. Ahmed and industry leaders explored the opportunities and challenges facing the sector.
The discussion covered various topics, including the relocation of tanneries to Savar, the environmental impact, financing hurdles, and certification processes essential for exporting leather goods.
Dr. Ahmed highlighted that leather is a locally sourced raw material, giving Bangladesh a significant advantage in the global market.
“This sector has every possibility for an upgrade,”
Dr. Ahmed
Noting that the industry’s growth would be a key driver in diversifying Bangladesh’s export portfolio & economy.
The tanning and finishing segments, as well as the footwear and leather goods sectors—comprising bags, wallets, belts, and other accessories—represent a significant opportunity for growth in international markets.
Bangladesh is already attracting major global brands, including Adidas, Aldo, Timberland, Marks & Spencer, Nike, and K-Mart, which are sourcing leather goods and footwear from the country.
Notably, European markets remain the largest buyers, although Bangladesh exports to the United States, Japan, China, and the UK, demonstrating the sector’s growing global footprint.
Currently, Bangladesh’s leather sector includes 200 tanneries, 3,500 MSMEs, and 2,500 footwear production units.
These businesses are meeting approximately 10% of the global demand for leather, placing Bangladesh among the key players in the industry.
The country’s ability to produce fabric-based footwear, alongside traditional leather products, has further broadened its appeal to international retailers.
The industry is also experiencing rapid development in eco-friendly practices. A new 205-unit Tannery Estate in Savar has been equipped with Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETP) and Solid Treatment Plants (STP), marking a move toward sustainable production.
The Bangladesh government has recognized the potential of the leather industry and taken proactive steps to facilitate its growth. The government has already established a modern leather industrial estate in Savar, and two additional industrial parks are planned for Chattogram and Rajshahi.
These developments are expected to unlock further potential and help Bangladesh compete with other leather-producing countries on the global stage.
The relocation of tanneries from Hazaribagh to the Savar industrial estate has been a major step forward.
Tanners now have the opportunity to modernize their facilities with hydraulic and pneumatic machinery, upgraded production processes, and cutting-edge technology.
This shift is expected to significantly enhance the industry’s capacity to produce high-quality leather products and compete internationally.
In conclusion, the Bangladesh leather and footwear industry is on the cusp of becoming a leading player in the global market. With locally sourced materials, strong government support, and growing interest from international brands, the sector is primed for expansion. Its leather industry is set to become a cornerstone of the national economy and a major player in global exports.
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