He made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at an event organized to mark the assumption of charge of the newly elected board of directors of Bogura Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Khondaker Abdul Muktadir said Bogura has the potential to emerge as one of the most important hubs for the country's industrial and economic development, especially for the light engineering industry. The government is working to build the necessary infrastructure to harness this potential.
The minister said Bogura's existing BSCIC industrial estate has already become full, and there is a huge demand for setting up industries among new entrepreneurs. In this context, a plan has been taken to establish a new BSCIC industrial park on about 400 acres of land. Efforts will be made to move the work forward quickly and start preliminary activities during the current winter season.
The commerce minister stressed the need to increase productivity and reduce financing costs to enhance the competitiveness of industries. He said it is difficult to successfully run a business by taking loans at high interest. Therefore, along with increasing productivity and efficiency to reduce production costs, the cost of financing must also be reduced. He also said the government is working to ensure easy availability of fuel and electricity, simplify gas connections, and create opportunities for low-cost financing.
The minister further said the proposed industrial park will have not only infrastructure but also arrangements for technical training, skilled manpower development, and necessary information and assistance for setting up industries. Entrepreneurs will get loans at low interest under the government's credit wholesaling scheme, and alongside industrialization, emphasis will also be placed on building a skilled workforce.
Road Transport and Bridges Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam inaugurated the event. State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives Mir Shah Alam spoke as the special guest.
Members of Parliament from different constituencies of Bogura, Deputy Commissioner Md. Tawfiqur Rahman, Superintendent of Police Mirza Sayem Mahmud, and President of Bogura Chamber M S M Atikur Rahman Badal along with other leaders and business representatives were present at the event. The newly elected board members were introduced, and a commitment was expressed to make the organization's activities more dynamic and business-friendly.
Earlier, Khondaker Abdul Muktadir visited the proposed industrial park site in Fapore union under Bogura Sadar upazila.
