Reported by: Faruq Alam

Written by: Eshan Maitra

Ministry of Textiles & Jute shares displeasure against the Ministry of Food, for deciding to use plastic bags in importing 50 thousand tons of rice. They have sent a letter regarding this.

Bangladesh Jute Mills Corporation & Bangladesh Jute Mills Associations also sent separate letters to the Ministry of Textiles & Jute. To request for revaluating the decision of using plastic bags in this big import. Their letter specifically mentioned that, such decision is violating the existing laws, such as Jute Packaging Law – 2010. This law forbids of using plastic bags for trading. Also, violating it will result in, punishment of 1 year jail-time or 50 thousand taka fine.

But Ministry of Food shares their concern that, our country might have enough jute-packaging. Though, the country they will be importing rice from, might not have enough jute bags. Wheats can be imported openly on the ships. While, rice may degrade without proper packaging.

This importing decision was totally based on urgent need of the country. Since, Boro season’s rice production was hampered by this year’s natural calamities, says Food Administrations General Director Badrul Hasan.