Export earnings to be raised to $50b by 2021: Tipu Munshi
Newly appointed Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi yesterday said highest emphasis would be given to raising the country's export earnings to $50 billion by 2021.
“I want to work sincerely to expand trade and commerce, generate new employment and attract more investment. Highest priority will be given to raise the country's export earnings to $50 billion,” he said.
The minister was addressing a press conference at a temporary office set up on the Dhaka International Trade Fair premises in the capital's Sher-e-Bangla Nagar.
Commerce Secretary Md Mofizul Islam and Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) Vice Chairman Bijoy Bhattacharjee were also present.
Munshi said they would work to fetch more foreign direct investment, ensure diversification of products, generate new employment and ensure region-wise development.
“There is already an export target of $50 billion where RMG will play the major role with its high growth. Pharmaceuticals are also doing well and we will work to fulfill our target,” he added.
The commerce minister said the government would also consider setting up a cold storage in Mymensingh to capitalise on the region's immense fisheries production while there was a plan to ensure optimum utilisation of agricultural production in Rangpur.
About the ongoing movement of RMG workers for increasing wages, he said, “A new salary structure is going to be introduced this month and whenever there is any new thing, objections come.”
“We have discussed the matter with the RMG factory owners yesterday…hopefully we will find out a better solution,” he added.
The 24th Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF)-2019 begins tomorrow.
A total of 550 stalls and 60 premium pavilions, 38 premium mini pavilions, 20 reserved pavilions for women, 26 foreign pavilions, 18 general pavilions and 22 food stalls will be set up.
Organisations from India, Bhutan, Pakistan, China, the United States, the United Kingdom, Nepal, Australia, Germany, Hong Kong, Thailand, Vietnam, the Maldives, Mauritius, Russia, Iran and Swaziland are participating in the fair.
