INTERNATIONAL: Industry leaders and experts have called for closer China-Bangladesh cooperation in ceramic technology, innovation and skills development to strengthen the sector`s global competitiveness at the China-Bangladesh Ceramics Annual Conference held in Dhaka.

The conference, jointly organized by the Bangladesh Ceramic Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BCMEA) and Foshan Uniceramics Expo of China, took place at a hotel in the capital on Saturday under the theme "Empowering Technology, Winning Tomorrow Together." The event brought together international delegates, technology specialists and leading entrepreneurs from the ceramic industry.

Speaking at the conference, Irfan Uddin, Secretary General of BCMEA and Director of FARR Ceramics Ltd., said industrial progress in the modern era is closely linked to partnership and collaboration.

He emphasized the importance of knowledge sharing, technological cooperation and innovation in building a stronger and more globally competitive ceramic industry.

Eva Chen, Manager of the Overseas Business Department of Uniceramics China, highlighted the growth potential of Bangladesh`s ceramic market.

She noted that per capita ceramic consumption in Bangladesh currently stands at around one square metre, compared with a peak of 6.9 square metres in China, suggesting significant room for future market expansion in Bangladesh.

Mohammad Khorshed Alam, President of the Bangladesh-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCCI), said stronger cooperation with Chinese business partners could unlock new opportunities in both domestic and international markets.

Mamunur Rashid, Additional Managing Director of X Ceramics Group, described the ceramic industry as one of Bangladesh`s fastest-growing and most promising manufacturing sectors.

He said Bangladesh now produces world-class tableware, ceramic tiles and sanitary ware, with products being exported to markets across Europe, North America and the Middle East.

Moinul Islam, President of BCMEA and Chairman of Monno Group of Industries, said the conference represented more than just an industry gathering.

"It serves as a platform for exchanging knowledge, experience and best practices between the ceramic industries of China and Bangladesh," he said.

He also stressed the importance of learning from China`s advanced manufacturing capabilities and innovative technologies to accelerate the growth and global competitiveness of Bangladesh`s ceramic industry.

Source: Nahar, Lutfor, China Media Group (CMG).