Government Initiates Free Salt Scheme to Prevent Leather Waste
এব র চ মড় নষ ট র – To curb the wastage of leather, the government has once again decided to supply 18 crore taka worth of salt at no cost. This initiative aims to ensure the preservation of cowhide, with the price of salted leather per square foot increased by 2 taka to maintain fair valuation. The announcement came following a meeting of the ‘Committee for Ensuring Proper Management of Religious Sacrifice Matters’ held in the Commerce Ministry’s conference hall on Wednesday, 13 May, where Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktdir addressed the press.
Highlighting the issue, the minister stated, “This year, the government will provide 18 crore taka worth of salt free of cost to prevent leather wastage. District and upazila administrations will also conduct training for those involved in leather preservation.” He emphasized that the current pricing strategy and free salt distribution are designed to reduce losses and support the industry.
Price Adjustments in Dhaka and Beyond
The revised prices for salted cow leather have been set at 62 to 67 taka per square foot in Dhaka, up from 60 to 65 taka last year. Outside Dhaka, the price range is 57 to 62 taka, compared to 55 to 60 taka previously. This adjustment applies uniformly across both regions. For mutton and goat leather, the prices are now 22 to 25 taka per square foot, maintaining consistency with previous rates.
“The price hike along with free salt supply is positive for the leather industry. It will reduce wastage and ensure fair pricing for traders,” said a representative of the leather business community.
Committee Composition and Oversight
The meeting was chaired by Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktdir, with the presence of several key officials, including Information and Communication Minister Jahiruddin Swapan, Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Hussain (Khaiqobad), Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid, and Environment, Forests, and Climate Change Minister Sheikh Faridul Islam. These stakeholders are working to implement strict monitoring and awareness programs to address the issue of leather wastage effectively.
