Handicrafts are items made by hand using simple tools that are artistic and traditional. Common types include textiles, clay, metal, wood, and stone crafts.
In Bangladesh, the handicraft sector comprises small rural manufacturing units operated by owners or small workforces. Approximately 3 million people are employed in textile, jute, wood, and other handicrafts. Key players in the sector include NGO exporters and manufacturers.
Common handicraft products from Bangladesh include antiques, bamboo/wood crafts, and other gifts. The document then shifts to providing background information on Bangladesh's history, government, geography, economy, and other details.
This document provides an overview of tourism prospects in Bangladesh. It discusses the country's geography, climate, population, economy and main tourist destinations. The four primary tourist divisions highlighted are Rajshahi, Sylhet, Chittagong and Khulna. These divisions offer historical sites, tea estates, beaches, rainforests and opportunities to interact with tribal communities. While tourism is a growing sector, development challenges remain regarding infrastructure, safety and changing perceptions of Bangladesh internationally.
Bangladesh is located in South Asia, bordered by India and Myanmar. It has a population of over 164 million and was formerly part of British India and later Pakistan before gaining independence in 1971. The country has a predominantly rural economy focused on agriculture and manufacturing. Bangladeshi culture is influenced by Bengali traditions and the majority of the population practices Islam.
Saifur Rahman introduces himself as a 24-year old Bangladeshi student studying agricultural extension education with interests in photography, travelling, and reading. The document provides an overview of Bangladesh, including key facts such as its independence day, capital, GDP, population, and languages. Major tourist attractions discussed include the world's longest sea beach in Cox's Bazar, the Sundarbans mangrove forest, and sites in Sylhet. Natural disasters that frequently impact Bangladesh like flooding and cyclones are also summarized.
This document provides information about an art integrated project on Sikkim created by three students from Kendriya Vidyalaya No. 1. It includes a map of Sikkim, the history and geography of Sikkim, and details on its flora, fauna, demographics, and culture. The key points are that Sikkim was an independent monarchy that joined India in 1975, it has diverse mountainous terrain and subarctic to subtropical climates, and the majority religion is now Hinduism despite its Buddhist historical influence. Festivals celebrated include Losar marking the Tibetan New Year and Saga Dawa commemorating the life of Buddha.
This document discusses the vision for peace, progress and prosperity in India's Northeastern region by 2020. It outlines the region's economic and social challenges due to its isolation following partition in 1947. The region lags behind the rest of India on many development indicators like income, infrastructure and power consumption. The vision is for the region to catch up economically by accelerating annual income growth rates to 7.9-13.3% through 2020 to achieve national average income levels and standards of living. This will require major investments in infrastructure, private sector growth, and improved governance.
Introduction to major features of bhutanese economy since 1961 by Tanveer Rez...Tanveer Reza Rouf
The document summarizes the major features of Bhutan's economy since 1961. It discusses the timeline of Bhutan's five year plans from 1961-1972, which focused on developing infrastructure like roads, education, health care, agriculture, and hydroelectric power. The economic base in 1971 was described as archaic and subsistence-based with a nonexistent market economy apart from minor internal barter trade. The table provides an overview of Bhutan's economy in different time periods from 1961 to the present, focusing on the role of the state, main economic sectors, and the growth of hydroelectricity.
Geography of Bangladesh -Shakil Anower SamratSoftsasi
Bangladesh has a total area of 148,460 square kilometers and is bordered by India and Myanmar. It has a tropical monsoon climate with hot, wet summers and mild winters. Bangladesh experiences heavy seasonal rainfall and is very vulnerable to climate change impacts like flooding and cyclones due to its low-lying geography. The country is criss-crossed by many rivers, including the Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghna rivers and their tributaries, which drain into the Bay of Bengal. Bangladesh has a population of over 167 million people that is still growing, though the rate of growth has declined in recent decades. The coastal areas along the Bay of Bengal have experienced significant changes over time, including
This document provides an overview of tourism prospects in Bangladesh. It discusses the country's geography, climate, population, economy and main tourist destinations. The four primary tourist divisions highlighted are Rajshahi, Sylhet, Chittagong and Khulna. These divisions offer historical sites, tea estates, beaches, rainforests and opportunities to interact with tribal communities. While tourism is a growing sector, development challenges remain regarding infrastructure, safety and changing perceptions of Bangladesh internationally.
Bangladesh is located in South Asia, bordered by India and Myanmar. It has a population of over 164 million and was formerly part of British India and later Pakistan before gaining independence in 1971. The country has a predominantly rural economy focused on agriculture and manufacturing. Bangladeshi culture is influenced by Bengali traditions and the majority of the population practices Islam.
Saifur Rahman introduces himself as a 24-year old Bangladeshi student studying agricultural extension education with interests in photography, travelling, and reading. The document provides an overview of Bangladesh, including key facts such as its independence day, capital, GDP, population, and languages. Major tourist attractions discussed include the world's longest sea beach in Cox's Bazar, the Sundarbans mangrove forest, and sites in Sylhet. Natural disasters that frequently impact Bangladesh like flooding and cyclones are also summarized.
This document provides information about an art integrated project on Sikkim created by three students from Kendriya Vidyalaya No. 1. It includes a map of Sikkim, the history and geography of Sikkim, and details on its flora, fauna, demographics, and culture. The key points are that Sikkim was an independent monarchy that joined India in 1975, it has diverse mountainous terrain and subarctic to subtropical climates, and the majority religion is now Hinduism despite its Buddhist historical influence. Festivals celebrated include Losar marking the Tibetan New Year and Saga Dawa commemorating the life of Buddha.
This document discusses the vision for peace, progress and prosperity in India's Northeastern region by 2020. It outlines the region's economic and social challenges due to its isolation following partition in 1947. The region lags behind the rest of India on many development indicators like income, infrastructure and power consumption. The vision is for the region to catch up economically by accelerating annual income growth rates to 7.9-13.3% through 2020 to achieve national average income levels and standards of living. This will require major investments in infrastructure, private sector growth, and improved governance.
Introduction to major features of bhutanese economy since 1961 by Tanveer Rez...Tanveer Reza Rouf
The document summarizes the major features of Bhutan's economy since 1961. It discusses the timeline of Bhutan's five year plans from 1961-1972, which focused on developing infrastructure like roads, education, health care, agriculture, and hydroelectric power. The economic base in 1971 was described as archaic and subsistence-based with a nonexistent market economy apart from minor internal barter trade. The table provides an overview of Bhutan's economy in different time periods from 1961 to the present, focusing on the role of the state, main economic sectors, and the growth of hydroelectricity.
Geography of Bangladesh -Shakil Anower SamratSoftsasi
Bangladesh has a total area of 148,460 square kilometers and is bordered by India and Myanmar. It has a tropical monsoon climate with hot, wet summers and mild winters. Bangladesh experiences heavy seasonal rainfall and is very vulnerable to climate change impacts like flooding and cyclones due to its low-lying geography. The country is criss-crossed by many rivers, including the Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghna rivers and their tributaries, which drain into the Bay of Bengal. Bangladesh has a population of over 167 million people that is still growing, though the rate of growth has declined in recent decades. The coastal areas along the Bay of Bengal have experienced significant changes over time, including
This document provides an overview of rural development in Odisha, India. It includes statistics on Odisha's demographics, with over 90% of the population and land area classified as rural. It describes the socioeconomic structure of rural Odisha, marked by divides in caste and class between landlords, rich peasants, small peasants, sharecroppers, and landless farm workers. It also discusses the semi-feudal nature of Odisha's agrarian society and outlines government initiatives aimed at poverty alleviation, though their impact has been limited. Overall, the document presents key facts about rural life in Odisha and the persisting challenges of development and poverty reduction.
7 SISTERS OF INDIA - PRESENTATION .pptxRiddhiBhutada
Nagaland is a hilly state in Northeast India known for its diverse tribes and traditions. The 16 major tribes that inhabit Nagaland each have their own distinct dialects, cultures, and styles of vernacular architecture. Houses are typically constructed from locally sourced materials like wood, bamboo, and thatch to withstand the region's cold, hilly climate. Roofs are sloped with thick thatch layers to shed rainwater quickly. Architecture varies between tribes but commonly features low walls, projecting roofs, and entrance areas protected from rain. Vernacular designs are adapted to the environment and emphasize natural resistance to earthquakes.
This document provides an introduction to a presentation on the economic geography of Bangladesh. It lists the group members and their details. It then outlines the introduction, background on Bangladesh, purpose of the study, and scope and objectives. The introduction section provides background on Bangladesh's population, independence in 1971, and growth in sectors like agriculture, textiles and pharmaceuticals. It states the purpose is a comprehensive analysis and the scope is to analyze economic structure, regional disparities, transportation networks, trade patterns, investment opportunities and more.
Bangladesh is a South Asian country located in the Bengal region. It has a population of over 171 million and a land area of 147,570 square kilometers. The majority of people speak Bangla and practice Islam. Bangladesh has a unitary parliamentary government and became independent after separating from Pakistan in 1971 following a war of liberation. The economy is mainly based on agriculture, with rice and jute as the main crops. Major rivers like the Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghna flow through the low-lying country.
This document provides an overview of Bangladesh with information presented over multiple sections. It includes the following key points:
- Basic facts about Bangladesh such as its capital, population, languages spoken, and major religions practiced.
- A short history of Bangladesh highlighting dates such as its declaration of independence in 1971.
- Descriptions of the climate, geography, wildlife, and major festivals of Bangladesh.
- An overview of the Bangladeshi economy focusing on key industries such as apparel, shipbuilding, and agriculture.
- Highlights of major tourist attractions across Bangladesh from Cox's Bazar beach to the Sundarbans mangrove forest.
This document provides an overview of India, including its:
- History dating back 5000 years to the Indus Valley civilization
- Geography as the 7th largest country located in South Asia between Pakistan and Burma
- Culture characterized by diverse music, festivals including Diwali and Dussehra, art, architecture, and dance
- Government as a federal parliamentary republic divided into 28 states and 7 union territories
- Economy which has seen rapid growth but still faces issues of poverty, overpopulation, and economic disparity.
This document provides an overview of India, including its:
- History dating back 5000 years to the Indus Valley civilization
- Geography as the 7th largest country located in South Asia between Pakistan and Burma
- Culture characterized by diverse music, festivals including Diwali and Dussehra, art, architecture, and dance
- Government as the largest democracy with a federal parliamentary system and 28 states
- Economy as the 4th largest by GDP with a mix of traditional village farming and modern industries
This document provides an overview of India, including its:
- History as an ancient civilization dating back 5000 years and subsequent colonial rule by Britain.
- Geography as the 7th largest country located in South Asia between Pakistan and Burma with diverse terrain.
- Population of over 1 billion people with many ethnic and religious groups including Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and Sikhs.
This document provides an overview of India, including its:
- History as an ancient civilization dating back over 5,000 years and British colonial rule ending in 1947.
- Geography as the 7th largest country located in South Asia between Pakistan and Burma with diverse terrain ranging from Himalayan mountains to deserts.
- Population of over 1 billion people with major religions being Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, and Sikhism and dozens of languages spoken.
Bangladesh is a densely populated country that is much smaller in area than France but has a larger population. Dhaka is the 9th largest city in the world with over 15 million residents. Bangladesh has a long history and was formed in 1971 after gaining independence from Pakistan. The Bengali language is spoken by around 300 million people and was a key part of the cultural identity movement in Bangladesh. The country faces natural disasters like cyclones and floods annually but also has a rich cultural heritage exemplified through traditions, cuisine, and destinations like Cox's Bazar beach.
Bangladesh is located in South Asia, bordered by India and Myanmar. The document provides information on Bangladesh's location, history as a former British colony that became independent in 1971, physical features including major rivers, population of over 160 million, state symbols, economic activities focused on agriculture and manufacturing, cultural traditions such as holidays and weddings, important architectural buildings, national costumes, sports like cricket and kabaddi, and some famous athletes.
Dhaka, Bangladesh has a population of over 12 million, making it the largest and most densely populated city in Bangladesh. Bangladesh as a whole has a population density of 1045 people per square kilometer and is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. The country experiences heavy monsoon rains and frequent flooding due to its location in the Ganges Delta.
The document provides information about Md. Al-Amin, a senior lecturer at BIST, PISFT. It lists his educational qualifications which include an MBA in Apparel Merchandising and a master's degree in social science. It also outlines his work experience of over six years as a senior merchandiser for two large companies in Bangladesh. The document further provides his teaching experience of over four years and the subjects he lectures on such as quality control, production management, and business analysis.
The document provides information about Md. Al-Amin, a senior lecturer at BIST, PISFT. It lists his educational qualifications which include an MBA in Apparel Merchandising from NU and a master's in social science from DU. It also outlines his work experience of over six years as a senior merchandiser for two large companies in Bangladesh. The document provides his teaching experience of over four years and lists the topics he teaches in his Bangladesh Studies course.
To Presentation My Country & My State Sheikh Ahmed
Southwest University of Science & Technology in China. The document presents information about Bangladesh represented by Sheikh Jalal Ahmed, a master's student from Bangladesh. It includes sections about Bangladesh's flag, neighboring countries, political history covering its independence from Pakistan in 1971, festivals, tourist places including Cox's Bazar and the Sundarbans, foods such as biryani and halwa, the presenter's home city of Sylhet and hometown of Habiganj. It also provides travel tips on visas, currency, transportation and accommodations.
The earliest written record in Bangladesh is an inscription on a piece of stone that was discovered at Mahasthan in the district of Bogra.
It shows that this city (then known as Pudanagala or Pundranagara) was an important urban centre when the Maurya empire dominated North India. It has been suggested that Mahasthan may have been a provincial capital of that empire.
The inscription is in Prakrit, a language from which the Bengali language would develop in the tenth century ce, and it appears to be an order to fill up a storehouse with rice, oil, trees and coins against any emergency caused by water, fire or a devastation of the crops by parrots.
The document provides an overview of the Indian economy, including key sectors. It discusses the history of the Indian economy from ancient times through British colonial rule to the present. Some key points:
- Agriculture has historically been the largest employment sector but its contribution to GDP has declined as other sectors have grown.
- Manufacturing, especially in industries like petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, automotive and engineering, has increased significantly since economic reforms in the 1990s.
- The services sector now contributes the largest share (57%) to India's GDP, with industries like IT and business outsourcing among the fastest growing.
This document provides an overview of frozen food exports from Bangladesh. It discusses the levels and value of frozen food exports, main destinations, and challenges and opportunities. Some key points:
- Frozen food, mainly shrimp, is Bangladesh's second largest export industry, valued at $490.5 million in 2019-2020. The EU, US, and Japan are major markets.
- Exports have increased over time due to growing demand for convenience foods and Bangladesh's competitive advantages in cost and quality compliance.
- Emerging markets include Russia, France, and new products like frozen meals offer opportunities for further growth.
- Challenges include improving production efficiency and infrastructure to meet global demand and compete internationally. Government
The document summarizes the results of a survey conducted by Group 4 on the food courts at IUB. The survey included 100 students and asked questions about the cafeterias (Gulpia, Hello, and IUB Main Food Court), the types of food served, and student satisfaction. Key findings were that 30% of students had no issues, 35% had concerns about hygiene and space, 25% wanted IUB to operate its own canteens, and 10% had little interest in the canteens.
This document provides an overview of rural development in Odisha, India. It includes statistics on Odisha's demographics, with over 90% of the population and land area classified as rural. It describes the socioeconomic structure of rural Odisha, marked by divides in caste and class between landlords, rich peasants, small peasants, sharecroppers, and landless farm workers. It also discusses the semi-feudal nature of Odisha's agrarian society and outlines government initiatives aimed at poverty alleviation, though their impact has been limited. Overall, the document presents key facts about rural life in Odisha and the persisting challenges of development and poverty reduction.
7 SISTERS OF INDIA - PRESENTATION .pptxRiddhiBhutada
Nagaland is a hilly state in Northeast India known for its diverse tribes and traditions. The 16 major tribes that inhabit Nagaland each have their own distinct dialects, cultures, and styles of vernacular architecture. Houses are typically constructed from locally sourced materials like wood, bamboo, and thatch to withstand the region's cold, hilly climate. Roofs are sloped with thick thatch layers to shed rainwater quickly. Architecture varies between tribes but commonly features low walls, projecting roofs, and entrance areas protected from rain. Vernacular designs are adapted to the environment and emphasize natural resistance to earthquakes.
This document provides an introduction to a presentation on the economic geography of Bangladesh. It lists the group members and their details. It then outlines the introduction, background on Bangladesh, purpose of the study, and scope and objectives. The introduction section provides background on Bangladesh's population, independence in 1971, and growth in sectors like agriculture, textiles and pharmaceuticals. It states the purpose is a comprehensive analysis and the scope is to analyze economic structure, regional disparities, transportation networks, trade patterns, investment opportunities and more.
Bangladesh is a South Asian country located in the Bengal region. It has a population of over 171 million and a land area of 147,570 square kilometers. The majority of people speak Bangla and practice Islam. Bangladesh has a unitary parliamentary government and became independent after separating from Pakistan in 1971 following a war of liberation. The economy is mainly based on agriculture, with rice and jute as the main crops. Major rivers like the Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghna flow through the low-lying country.
This document provides an overview of Bangladesh with information presented over multiple sections. It includes the following key points:
- Basic facts about Bangladesh such as its capital, population, languages spoken, and major religions practiced.
- A short history of Bangladesh highlighting dates such as its declaration of independence in 1971.
- Descriptions of the climate, geography, wildlife, and major festivals of Bangladesh.
- An overview of the Bangladeshi economy focusing on key industries such as apparel, shipbuilding, and agriculture.
- Highlights of major tourist attractions across Bangladesh from Cox's Bazar beach to the Sundarbans mangrove forest.
This document provides an overview of India, including its:
- History dating back 5000 years to the Indus Valley civilization
- Geography as the 7th largest country located in South Asia between Pakistan and Burma
- Culture characterized by diverse music, festivals including Diwali and Dussehra, art, architecture, and dance
- Government as a federal parliamentary republic divided into 28 states and 7 union territories
- Economy which has seen rapid growth but still faces issues of poverty, overpopulation, and economic disparity.
This document provides an overview of India, including its:
- History dating back 5000 years to the Indus Valley civilization
- Geography as the 7th largest country located in South Asia between Pakistan and Burma
- Culture characterized by diverse music, festivals including Diwali and Dussehra, art, architecture, and dance
- Government as the largest democracy with a federal parliamentary system and 28 states
- Economy as the 4th largest by GDP with a mix of traditional village farming and modern industries
This document provides an overview of India, including its:
- History as an ancient civilization dating back 5000 years and subsequent colonial rule by Britain.
- Geography as the 7th largest country located in South Asia between Pakistan and Burma with diverse terrain.
- Population of over 1 billion people with many ethnic and religious groups including Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and Sikhs.
This document provides an overview of India, including its:
- History as an ancient civilization dating back over 5,000 years and British colonial rule ending in 1947.
- Geography as the 7th largest country located in South Asia between Pakistan and Burma with diverse terrain ranging from Himalayan mountains to deserts.
- Population of over 1 billion people with major religions being Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, and Sikhism and dozens of languages spoken.
Bangladesh is a densely populated country that is much smaller in area than France but has a larger population. Dhaka is the 9th largest city in the world with over 15 million residents. Bangladesh has a long history and was formed in 1971 after gaining independence from Pakistan. The Bengali language is spoken by around 300 million people and was a key part of the cultural identity movement in Bangladesh. The country faces natural disasters like cyclones and floods annually but also has a rich cultural heritage exemplified through traditions, cuisine, and destinations like Cox's Bazar beach.
Bangladesh is located in South Asia, bordered by India and Myanmar. The document provides information on Bangladesh's location, history as a former British colony that became independent in 1971, physical features including major rivers, population of over 160 million, state symbols, economic activities focused on agriculture and manufacturing, cultural traditions such as holidays and weddings, important architectural buildings, national costumes, sports like cricket and kabaddi, and some famous athletes.
Dhaka, Bangladesh has a population of over 12 million, making it the largest and most densely populated city in Bangladesh. Bangladesh as a whole has a population density of 1045 people per square kilometer and is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. The country experiences heavy monsoon rains and frequent flooding due to its location in the Ganges Delta.
The document provides information about Md. Al-Amin, a senior lecturer at BIST, PISFT. It lists his educational qualifications which include an MBA in Apparel Merchandising and a master's degree in social science. It also outlines his work experience of over six years as a senior merchandiser for two large companies in Bangladesh. The document further provides his teaching experience of over four years and the subjects he lectures on such as quality control, production management, and business analysis.
The document provides information about Md. Al-Amin, a senior lecturer at BIST, PISFT. It lists his educational qualifications which include an MBA in Apparel Merchandising from NU and a master's in social science from DU. It also outlines his work experience of over six years as a senior merchandiser for two large companies in Bangladesh. The document provides his teaching experience of over four years and lists the topics he teaches in his Bangladesh Studies course.
To Presentation My Country & My State Sheikh Ahmed
Southwest University of Science & Technology in China. The document presents information about Bangladesh represented by Sheikh Jalal Ahmed, a master's student from Bangladesh. It includes sections about Bangladesh's flag, neighboring countries, political history covering its independence from Pakistan in 1971, festivals, tourist places including Cox's Bazar and the Sundarbans, foods such as biryani and halwa, the presenter's home city of Sylhet and hometown of Habiganj. It also provides travel tips on visas, currency, transportation and accommodations.
The earliest written record in Bangladesh is an inscription on a piece of stone that was discovered at Mahasthan in the district of Bogra.
It shows that this city (then known as Pudanagala or Pundranagara) was an important urban centre when the Maurya empire dominated North India. It has been suggested that Mahasthan may have been a provincial capital of that empire.
The inscription is in Prakrit, a language from which the Bengali language would develop in the tenth century ce, and it appears to be an order to fill up a storehouse with rice, oil, trees and coins against any emergency caused by water, fire or a devastation of the crops by parrots.
The document provides an overview of the Indian economy, including key sectors. It discusses the history of the Indian economy from ancient times through British colonial rule to the present. Some key points:
- Agriculture has historically been the largest employment sector but its contribution to GDP has declined as other sectors have grown.
- Manufacturing, especially in industries like petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, automotive and engineering, has increased significantly since economic reforms in the 1990s.
- The services sector now contributes the largest share (57%) to India's GDP, with industries like IT and business outsourcing among the fastest growing.
Similar to handicraft-of-bangladesh_compress.pdf (20)
This document provides an overview of frozen food exports from Bangladesh. It discusses the levels and value of frozen food exports, main destinations, and challenges and opportunities. Some key points:
- Frozen food, mainly shrimp, is Bangladesh's second largest export industry, valued at $490.5 million in 2019-2020. The EU, US, and Japan are major markets.
- Exports have increased over time due to growing demand for convenience foods and Bangladesh's competitive advantages in cost and quality compliance.
- Emerging markets include Russia, France, and new products like frozen meals offer opportunities for further growth.
- Challenges include improving production efficiency and infrastructure to meet global demand and compete internationally. Government
The document summarizes the results of a survey conducted by Group 4 on the food courts at IUB. The survey included 100 students and asked questions about the cafeterias (Gulpia, Hello, and IUB Main Food Court), the types of food served, and student satisfaction. Key findings were that 30% of students had no issues, 35% had concerns about hygiene and space, 25% wanted IUB to operate its own canteens, and 10% had little interest in the canteens.
Frozen food is an important export sector for Bangladesh. It contributes over $300 million annually in exports, accounting for around 1.5% of Bangladesh's total exports. The main frozen food exports are shrimp, fish, and seafood. Around 80% of Bangladesh's frozen food exports go to the United States, European countries like Belgium, the UK, and Germany, and Japan. While frozen food exports have grown significantly in recent years, competition from other countries producing cheaper seafood is posing a challenge for Bangladesh's market share.
The document discusses various definitions and concepts related to mergers and acquisitions:
1) It defines different types of mergers and acquisitions such as mergers, consolidations, tender offers, horizontal acquisitions, vertical acquisitions, and conglomerate acquisitions.
2) It also discusses related concepts such as proxy contests, going-private transactions, leveraged buyouts, synergy, and defensive tactics used by target firms like poison pills and standstill agreements.
3) Finally, it examines considerations for acquisitions like evaluating synergies, accounting treatment, tax implications, and whether the acquisition creates or destroys value for shareholders.
This document is a student assignment submitted by Al Noor Aziz Laisha to their professor, Dr. Raisul Awal Mahmood, analyzing Bangladesh's exports to the United Kingdom. It includes an overview of the economies of the United Kingdom and Bangladesh, outlining key economic indicators such as GDP, exports, imports and trade partners. It also provides a table of contents and conclusion. The assignment aims to gain insight into Bangladesh's perspective in international business relations with the UK.
Frozen food is an important export sector for Bangladesh. Bangladesh exports frozen shrimp and fish to over 30 countries worldwide. Between 2019-2020, frozen food exports totaled $337 million USD, accounting for 1.47% of Bangladesh's total exports. The major frozen food exports from Bangladesh include shrimp, fish, fish fillets, and value-added seafood products. While Bangladesh was once a top exporter of shrimp, its market share has declined in recent years due to competition from other countries that produce shrimp more cheaply.
This document contains a multiple choice quiz about capital structure and dividend policy. It includes 15 questions testing understanding of key concepts like capital structure definition, assumptions of valuation approaches, costs related to leverage, signaling effects of debt issuance, and implications of the Miller and Modigliani dividend irrelevance proposition. The questions cover topics such as how dividends are determined, differences between stock dividends and stock splits, reasons investors may prefer dividends, and assumptions of the M&M theory.
This document contains a multiple choice quiz about capital structure and dividend policy. It includes 15 questions testing understanding of key concepts like capital structure definition, assumptions of valuation approaches, costs related to leverage, signaling effects of debt issuance, and implications of the Miller and Modigliani dividend irrelevance proposition. The questions cover topics such as how dividends are determined, differences between stock dividends and stock splits, methods for stock repurchases, and investor preferences regarding dividends and capital gains.
Lecture slide titled Fraud Risk Mitigation, Webinar Lecture Delivered at the Society for West African Internal Audit Practitioners (SWAIAP) on Wednesday, November 8, 2023.
STREETONOMICS: Exploring the Uncharted Territories of Informal Markets throug...sameer shah
Delve into the world of STREETONOMICS, where a team of 7 enthusiasts embarks on a journey to understand unorganized markets. By engaging with a coffee street vendor and crafting questionnaires, this project uncovers valuable insights into consumer behavior and market dynamics in informal settings."
Solution Manual For Financial Accounting, 8th Canadian Edition 2024, by Libby...Donc Test
Solution Manual For Financial Accounting, 8th Canadian Edition 2024, by Libby, Hodge, Verified Chapters 1 - 13, Complete Newest Version Solution Manual For Financial Accounting, 8th Canadian Edition by Libby, Hodge, Verified Chapters 1 - 13, Complete Newest Version Solution Manual For Financial Accounting 8th Canadian Edition Pdf Chapters Download Stuvia Solution Manual For Financial Accounting 8th Canadian Edition Ebook Download Stuvia Solution Manual For Financial Accounting 8th Canadian Edition Pdf Solution Manual For Financial Accounting 8th Canadian Edition Pdf Download Stuvia Financial Accounting 8th Canadian Edition Pdf Chapters Download Stuvia Financial Accounting 8th Canadian Edition Ebook Download Stuvia Financial Accounting 8th Canadian Edition Pdf Financial Accounting 8th Canadian Edition Pdf Download Stuvia
2. Elemental Economics - Mineral demand.pdfNeal Brewster
After this second you should be able to: Explain the main determinants of demand for any mineral product, and their relative importance; recognise and explain how demand for any product is likely to change with economic activity; recognise and explain the roles of technology and relative prices in influencing demand; be able to explain the differences between the rates of growth of demand for different products.
1. Elemental Economics - Introduction to mining.pdfNeal Brewster
After this first you should: Understand the nature of mining; have an awareness of the industry’s boundaries, corporate structure and size; appreciation the complex motivations and objectives of the industries’ various participants; know how mineral reserves are defined and estimated, and how they evolve over time.
Financial Assets: Debit vs Equity Securities.pptxWrito-Finance
financial assets represent claim for future benefit or cash. Financial assets are formed by establishing contracts between participants. These financial assets are used for collection of huge amounts of money for business purposes.
Two major Types: Debt Securities and Equity Securities.
Debt Securities are Also known as fixed-income securities or instruments. The type of assets is formed by establishing contracts between investor and issuer of the asset.
• The first type of Debit securities is BONDS. Bonds are issued by corporations and government (both local and national government).
• The second important type of Debit security is NOTES. Apart from similarities associated with notes and bonds, notes have shorter term maturity.
• The 3rd important type of Debit security is TRESURY BILLS. These securities have short-term ranging from three months, six months, and one year. Issuer of such securities are governments.
• Above discussed debit securities are mostly issued by governments and corporations. CERTIFICATE OF DEPOSITS CDs are issued by Banks and Financial Institutions. Risk factor associated with CDs gets reduced when issued by reputable institutions or Banks.
Following are the risk attached with debt securities: Credit risk, interest rate risk and currency risk
There are no fixed maturity dates in such securities, and asset’s value is determined by company’s performance. There are two major types of equity securities: common stock and preferred stock.
Common Stock: These are simple equity securities and bear no complexities which the preferred stock bears. Holders of such securities or instrument have the voting rights when it comes to select the company’s board of director or the business decisions to be made.
Preferred Stock: Preferred stocks are sometime referred to as hybrid securities, because it contains elements of both debit security and equity security. Preferred stock confers ownership rights to security holder that is why it is equity instrument
<a href="https://www.writofinance.com/equity-securities-features-types-risk/" >Equity securities </a> as a whole is used for capital funding for companies. Companies have multiple expenses to cover. Potential growth of company is required in competitive market. So, these securities are used for capital generation, and then uses it for company’s growth.
Concluding remarks
Both are employed in business. Businesses are often established through debit securities, then what is the need for equity securities. Companies have to cover multiple expenses and expansion of business. They can also use equity instruments for repayment of debits. So, there are multiple uses for securities. As an investor, you need tools for analysis. Investment decisions are made by carefully analyzing the market. For better analysis of the stock market, investors often employ financial analysis of companies.
In a tight labour market, job-seekers gain bargaining power and leverage it into greater job quality—at least, that’s the conventional wisdom.
Michael, LMIC Economist, presented findings that reveal a weakened relationship between labour market tightness and job quality indicators following the pandemic. Labour market tightness coincided with growth in real wages for only a portion of workers: those in low-wage jobs requiring little education. Several factors—including labour market composition, worker and employer behaviour, and labour market practices—have contributed to the absence of worker benefits. These will be investigated further in future work.
Vicinity Jobs’ data includes more than three million 2023 OJPs and thousands of skills. Most skills appear in less than 0.02% of job postings, so most postings rely on a small subset of commonly used terms, like teamwork.
Laura Adkins-Hackett, Economist, LMIC, and Sukriti Trehan, Data Scientist, LMIC, presented their research exploring trends in the skills listed in OJPs to develop a deeper understanding of in-demand skills. This research project uses pointwise mutual information and other methods to extract more information about common skills from the relationships between skills, occupations and regions.
"Does Foreign Direct Investment Negatively Affect Preservation of Culture in the Global South? Case Studies in Thailand and Cambodia."
Do elements of globalization, such as Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), negatively affect the ability of countries in the Global South to preserve their culture? This research aims to answer this question by employing a cross-sectional comparative case study analysis utilizing methods of difference. Thailand and Cambodia are compared as they are in the same region and have a similar culture. The metric of difference between Thailand and Cambodia is their ability to preserve their culture. This ability is operationalized by their respective attitudes towards FDI; Thailand imposes stringent regulations and limitations on FDI while Cambodia does not hesitate to accept most FDI and imposes fewer limitations. The evidence from this study suggests that FDI from globally influential countries with high gross domestic products (GDPs) (e.g. China, U.S.) challenges the ability of countries with lower GDPs (e.g. Cambodia) to protect their culture. Furthermore, the ability, or lack thereof, of the receiving countries to protect their culture is amplified by the existence and implementation of restrictive FDI policies imposed by their governments.
My study abroad in Bali, Indonesia, inspired this research topic as I noticed how globalization is changing the culture of its people. I learned their language and way of life which helped me understand the beauty and importance of cultural preservation. I believe we could all benefit from learning new perspectives as they could help us ideate solutions to contemporary issues and empathize with others.
1. Handicrafts:
Handicrafts are mostly defined as "items made by hand, often with the use of
simple tools, and are generally artistic and for traditional in nature. They are also
object of utility and object of decoration. Some common types of handicrafts are
Textile based handicrafts, Clay, Metal, Jewelers, Woodwork, Stone Craft, Glass and
Ceramic.
Handicrafts in Bangladesh:
Handicraft sector in Bangladesh is comprises with small manufacturing units and
mostly located in rural areas, operated either by the owner themselves or with the
assistance of a small work force of 10-20 people. Most enterprises use traditional
techniques with or without the use of tools or simple instruments. Total number of
workforce associated with the industry stands approximately over 3 millions of
which over three quarters are employed in textile, jute goods, wood, lather, cane
and bamboo.. Key players in the sector involved in domestic supplies as well as
exporters are:1.
1. Non Government Organization (NGO) exporters of Handicrafts. (Eg.Arong)
2. NGO supportive product house (Non exporters)
3. Private manufacturers /exporters. (Eg. Various jute good manufacturers)
4. Small private manufacturers (Non exporters, eg. Naksha, Rang, Nabarupa etc.)
Handicraft Products of Bangladesh:
There are a great variety of Handicrafts products produced in our country. These are
1. Antiques & Collect
2. Bamboo & Wooden Crafts
3. Crafts Gifts
2. 1. Background
1.1History
The study of Bangladesh history and her descriptions are within very shortly
asbecause in common understanding there are in many way and dimension to
explainthe History of Bangladesh or Discovery of Bangladesh potential to give
details. Theterritory constituting Bangladesh was under the Muslim rule for over five
and a half centuries from 1201 to 1757 A-D. Subsequently, it was under the defeat
of the Britishafter the defeat of the last sovereign ruler, NawabSirajuddowla, at the
Battle of Plessey on the fateful day of June 23, 1757. “The British ruled over the
entire Indiansub-continent including this territory for nearly 190 years from 1757 to
1947. Duringthat period Bangladesh was a part of the British Indian provinces of
Bengal andAssam. With the termination of the British rule in August, 1947 the sub-
continent waspartitioned into India and Pakistan. Bangladesh was then a part of
Pakistan and wasknown as East Pakistan. It remained so about 24 years from
August 14. 1947 toMarch 25, 1971. It appeared on the world map as an
independent and sovereignstate on December 16, 1971 following the victory at the
War of Liberation from March25 to December 16, 1971”
1.2 Bangladesh
Intervention of the central government from depriving Sheikh Mujib-ur-Rahman of
asource of living and his greatest contribution was in instilling among
Bengalibureaucrats and elite the courage for dissent and a great measure of self-
confidence.“After nine months of war, the Pakistani military forces surrendered by
freedomfighters of Bangladesh at Dhaka on 16th December 1971 after killing three
millionpeople. Due to the heroic fight and supreme sacrifices of the heroic freedom
fightersBangladesh finally became an independent country. Bangladesh came into
existencein 1971 when Bengali East Pakistan seceded from its union with West
Pakistan”
(Global Interactive Marketing and Technology Solution)
.“Bangladesh is one of the world's most densely populated and least
developedcountry. Its economy is predominately agricultural (employs two thirds of
population),with rice being the chief crop. These rural communities are very weak to
the frequent,devastating cyclones and floods and about a third of this enormously
LeastDevelopment Country (LDC) floods annually during the monsoon rainy
season,hampering economic development”.
3. First as part of British India and then of Pakistan, the area now
constitutingBangladesh suffered from chronic economic neglect. “The region
produced largequantities of agricultural goods, including most of the world's jute,
but received littleinvestment in such basic items as transportation facilities and
industrial plants.Bangladesh's gross domestic product was estimated at $42.7
billion in 1998. Themanufacturing sector, which contributed 18.10 percent of
Bangladesh's domesticproduct in 1998, is made up principally of unmechanized,
small-scale enterprises.
The chief manufactures of the country are jute products (such as cordage and
sacks),textiles, processed food, beverages, tobacco items, handicrafts and goods
made of wood, cane, or bamboo. Large-scale factories process jute and sugarcane.
Much of the nation's heavy industry, including a small steel mill, is in the port of
Chittagong”
(Sugata Bose & M. M. Akash, History of Bangladesh, Page – 92-157)
1.2.1 Country Profile
Official name : The People’s Republic of Bangladesh
Location & borders : South Asia. Bordered by India on the east, west & north &by
the Bay of Bengal on the south and the small border strip with Myanmar on the
south-east.
Government : Parliamentary form of government, headed by PrimeMinister.
Area / Land : 147, 570 square km / Mostly alluvial fertile plain.
Climate / Seasons : Sub-tropical monsoon / Summer, monsoon, autumn,winter
Temperature : Varies between 11° C to 29° C in Winter & 21° C to 34° Cin
Summer.
Annual rainfall : Varies from 160 cm to 400 cm at different areas.
Humidity : Highest 99% in peak Summer in July, Lowest 36% inWinter in
Dec-Jan.
Standard time : GMT + 6 hours.
4. Population / Literacy :135 million / 65 (15 years +)
Official language : Bangla, English is generally understood & used as asecond
language.
Capital : Dhaka. Other major cities are Chittagong, Khulna,
Sylhet,Rajshahi& Barisal.
Intl. Airports : Dhaka, Chittagong &Sylhet.
Sea ports : Chittagong &Mongla.
Currency / Exch. Rate : Taka (TK.) / Floating exchange rate hovers round US
$1=Tk. 59.72, Euro 1=Tk. 74.51.
GDP / Rate of growth : US $ 57 billion (2003-2004) / 5.5% (2003-2004)
Sectoral share of GDP : 22.83% agriculture, 27.80% industries
(includingmanufacturing and construction) and the rest for others)
Per capital GDP / GN I: US $ 421 / US $ 444 (2003-2004)
Annual export & import : US $ 7.60 billion & US $ 10.87 billion (2003-
2004)respectably.
Major exports : Ready-made garments, frozen food (Shrimp),
leather,leather products, jute, jute products, tea, ceramics, textilefabrics, home
textile, chemical products, light engineeringproducts including bi-cycle.
Major imports :Oil, edible oil, petroleum products, wheat seeds,
fertilizer,yarn, capital goods, machinery, power generatingmachinery, scientific &
medical equipments, iron &still,motor vehicles, raw cotton, chemicals.
Major trading partners :USA, EU countries, China, India, Japan, South
Korea,Australia, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand,Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, UAE
etc.
Source: Annual Report 2002-2003,
1.2.2 Geography
“Bangladesh lies in the north eastern part of South Asia between 20° 34' and 26°
38’north latitude and 68° 01' and 92° 41' east longitude. The country is bounded by
Indiaon the west, the north, and the north-east and Burma on the south-east and
the Bayof Bengal on the south. The area of the country is 56,977 sq. miles or 1,
47,570 sqk.m. The limits of territorial waters of Bangladesh are 12 nautical miles
5. and the areaof the high seas extending to 200 nautical miles measured from the
base linesconstitutes the economic zone of the country”
1.2.3Physiography
“Except the hilly regions in the north-east and the south-east, some areas of
highlands in the north and north western part, the country consists of low, flat and
fertileland. A network of rivers of which the Padma, the Jamuna, the Teesta,
theBrahmaputra, the Surma, the Meghna and the Karnaphuli are important, and
their tributaries numbering about 230 with a total length of about 24140 k.m.
covering thecountry How down to the Bay of Bengal. The alluvial soil is thus
continuously beingenriched by heavy silts deposited by rivers during the rainy
season”
1.2.4Forest
“The total forest area covers about 13.36% of the land area. The country
producestimber, bamboo and cane. Bamboos grow in almost all areas but quality
timber growsmostly in the valleys. Among the timber sal, gamari, chaplish,
telsu.jarui, teak, garjan,chandon and sundari are important. Sundari trees grow in
the Sundarbans located inthe south-western part of the country bordering the Bay
of Bengal, Plantation of rubber in the hilly regions of the country was undertaken
recently and extraction of rubber had already started. Varieties of wild animals are
found in the forest areas.Sundarban is the home of the world famous 'Royal Bengal
Tigers' and cheetahs, of other animals elephants, bears, deer, monkeys, boars,
leopard, and crocodiles areworth mentioning. A few hundred species and sub-
species of birds are found in thecountry. Some of them are of seasonal and
migratory types”
1.2.5 Government
Since the nation's formation in 1971, the government of Bangladesh has
undergonemany changes and a secular parliamentary form of democracy was
established bythe 1972 constitution, but it was suspended in late 1974 and replaced
in January1975 by a presidential form of government. The 1972 constitution, as
amended, wassuspended again in 1982 after a coup d'&état. A ban on political
activities waswithdrawn and the constitution reinstated in 1986
6. .
“Bangladesh became independent and sovereign after a clarion call
Bangladeshnow has a multi-party democratic system with a parliamentary form of
government. A sovereigntary parliament (JatiyaSangsad) is elected by the people
for a five-year term. It acts as the legislature and approves the annual national
budget.It can amend the Constitution with the support of at least two-thirds of
the330 members in the House. A simple majority is, however, sufficient to
approvelaws and pass the budget. Three hundred Members of parliament are
elected bydirect franchise while 30 seats reserved for women are filled in through
indirectelection by elected MPs. Parliament has to sit every two months and is
summonedinto session by the President. It has tenured of five years”.
1.2.6 Bangladesh Economy
“The economy of the country has achieved a growth rate of 5.3% during the year
2002-2003 compared to 4.8% during the preceding year. GDP during the year
wasUS$ 5189 million compared to US$ 47571 million during the preceding year. Per
capita GDP was US$ 389, which was US$ 361 during the previous year
Inflationincreased to 5.2% during 2002-2003. Agriculture still holds an important
position inour national economy in creating employment and increasing national
income. Thecontribution of this sector in national income is about 23.5%. Growth in
agriculturehas increased to 3%. Fish production has increased by 2.3%. Growth in
the sector during the preceding year was 2.2%, Food production during the year
2002-2003 wasabout 27.1 million tons, compared to 26.1 million tons in the year
2001-2002. As thedepression in the world economy is almost over, growth in the
industry sector duringthe year 2002-2003 Increased to 7.3% compared to 6,6%
during the previous year”
(Annual Report 2002-2003, EPB, Page – 6-7)
.“Gross national savings during the year was 18.24% of GDP compared to
18.5%during the previous year. Gross fixed investment increased by 6.3% in 2002-
2003compared to 7% in 2001-2002. Total investment during the year 2002-2003
was US$1615.25 million out of which US$ 1512 million was registered with the
Board of Investment. Investment made by Bangladesh Small & Cottage Industries
Corporationwas US$ 18.25 million; Investment in the EPZs was US$ 85 million.
Import paymentduring the year 2002-2003 was US$ 9658 million compared lo US$
8540 millionduring the year 2001-2002. Import expenditure increased by 13%. In
total import, thecontribution of" capital goods was 22%, industrial raw materials
16%, primarycommodities 10%, others including EPZ 45%. Total export earning
during the year 2002-2003 was US$ 6548 million. The principal exportable are -
Woven garments 49.7%, Knitwear 25.26%, Frozen food 4.91%, Jute Products 3.93%,
Leather 2.92%.Chemical Products are 1.53% and Raw Jute 1.26%. Trade deficit
during the year increased to US$ 3110 million, which was US$ 2554 million during
7. the previous year.Remittance from expatriate Bangladeshis was US$ 3000 million
compared to US$2501 during the preceding year registering an increase of about
20%”
1.2.7 Labor
”The civilian labor force of Bangladesh was estimated in 1998 to include 64.1
millionpeople. Agriculture (including fishing) employs 64 percent of the workers,
while 9percent worked in industry and 24 percent in services and the
unemployment andunderemployment are significant problems in the country”
(Global Interactive Marketing and Technology Solution)
.
“Occupationally, 75 percent of the civilian labor force, which is currently estimated
at56 million, is directly or indirectly engaged in agriculture. Only 12 percent is
engagedin industry. Unemployment is estimated at around 18.5 percent. In terms of
agestructure, it is more youthful than in the western countries. Heavy pressure of
population on scarce land has no doubt created an extremely unfavorable land-
manratio. Coupled with this is the problem of unequal distribution and
heavyfragmentation of land in the rural areas. This is expected to improve with
morevigorous efforts at poverty improvement and advancement of educational and
socialconsciousness. Slowness of the agricultural sector has resulted in its
increasingdependence on the whims of nature and the per capita daily availability
of food grainscoming down to low level of 432 gram. Nearly 45% of the people live
below thepoverty line”
1.2.8 Manufacturing
The manufacturing sector, which contributed 18.10 percent of Bangladesh's
domesticproduct in 1998, is made up principally of unmechanized, small-scale
enterprises.The chief manufactures of the country are jute products (such as
cordage and sacks),textiles, processed food, beverages, tobacco items, and goods
made of wood, cane,or bamboo. Large-scale factories process jute and sugarcane.
Much of the nation'sheavy industry, including a small steel mill, is in the port of
Chittagong
1.2.9 International Organizations
”Bangladesh is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations and was admitted to
theUnited Nations in 1974 and It also belongs to the Colombo Plan for
CooperativeEconomic and Social Development, headquartered in Sri Lanka”
8. 1.1.10 Commerce and Foreign Trade
”The per-capita volume of Bangladeshi internal and foreign trade is low.
Domestictrade is conducted largely through thousands of periodic markets called
hats. Sinceindependence in 1971 the value of Bangladesh's annual imports has
usually been atleast twice that of exports; in 1998 imports cost $6.9 billion, and
exports earned $4.2billion”. “Theprincipal exports are jute products and raw jute;
clothing, seafood, tea, and hides andleather goods are the other important exports.
Imports include foodstuffs, basicmanufactures, mineral fuels, machinery, and
transportation equipment. Exports gomainly to European countries (especially
Germany and Italy), the United States, HongKong, and Japan; imports come chiefly
from the India, European countries, China,Japan, Hong Kong, South Korea, and the
United States and only a small number of tourists visit Bangladesh each year”
1.3 Incentive to Export-Oriented and Export-Linkage Industries
Export-oriented industrialization is one of the major objectives of the Industrial
Policy1999. Export-oriented industries will be given priority and public policy
support will been sured in this respect and an industry exporting at least 80% of its
manufactured goods or an industry contributing at least 80% of its products as an
input to finished exportable, and similarly, a business entity exporting at least 80%
of services including information technology related products will be considered as
an export-oriented industry. The export-oriented industries, further to the provisions
of Bangladesh Bank foreign exchange regulations, will be entitled to receive
additionalforeign exchange, on case to case basis, for publicity campaign, opening
overseasoffices and participating in international trade fairs. The entire export
earning fromHandicrafts and Cottage Industries will be exempted from income tax,
for all other industries, income tax rebate on export earning will be given at 50
percent and 100%percent export-oriented industry outside EPZ will be allowed to
sell 20% percent of their products in the domestic market on payment of applicable
duties and taxes.The Export-oriented industries which are identified by the
government as "ThrustSector" will be provided special facilities and venture capital
support.Apart from the above-mentioned facilities, other facilities announced and
provided inthe Export Policy will be applicable to export-oriented and export-linkage
industries.
1.4 Handy Craft of Bangladesh
“The traditional crafts of Bangladesh have been a focal point of interest for
visitorsfrom abroad for centuries. The rural-based infrastructure has made it a
potentialground for the development of numerous items crafted out of wood, jute,
cane,bamboo, grass, straw, clay and other indigenous raw materials. The items
9. producedby early craftsmen were not only singularly beautiful, but also
representative of theculture, tradition and customs of the country. With the passage
of time, however, newand modern styles and designs have been adapted and this
has paved the way for a
unique blend of the old and the new. Popular items in vogue are bamboo mirror
andpicture frames. Split bamboo shoots can be used as wall lining to create the
ultimatetropical decor. Bamboo and cane furniture as well as rattan, grass and
canehandicrafts and cane screens are just a few of the products available in an
amazingarray. Leather goods of attractive design and finishing are being produced
by skilledcraftsmen; the items produced are handbags, wallets, belts, shoe uppers,
travel bags,pen holders, card holders and many other utility items. Jute again is
another fiber from which a variety of useful products can be fashioned-be it bags,
belts, light shoes,wall hangings, draperies and of course jute carpets. Color fast,
fire-resistant, hazard-free jute carpets are unbelievably price advantageous. They
are also popular for health and environmental reasons all over the world”.
1.4.1 Handicraft Sector
“Bangladesh is now very much a part of the international scene and keeping in
mindthe discerning taste of the consumers, a vast range of crafts and novelties are
nowproduced in the country under the technical supervision of qualifiedproduct
development specialists. With the resurgence of worldwide interest in
cane,development of cane products has gained momentum. Bamboo, another
tropicalgrass is often used as a base for support of cane furniture and handicrafts,
Bamboobaskets of various shapes and sizes are in great demand in Europe and
America”
(Export Promotion Bureau, March - April '99)
.
“Five Bangladeshi handicraft companies recently participated in the
Frankfurtinternational trade fair Ambient-2005 and received spot and prospective
orders of US$ 550 thousand (5.5 lakh). The five companies, which participated in
the fair under the auspices of the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), are Creation (Pvt.)
Limited, FolkInternational, Heed Handicrafts, the Source and Wax Lyrical. The EPB
set up apavilion for the companies in the fair, the biggest ever for handicraft and
consumer goods. The EPB takes part in the fair every year on a regular basis to
promote andexpand the export of handicraft items from Bangladesh”.
1.4.2 HANDICRAFT EXPORTS
10. The most recent national survey on handicraft and cottage industries in Bangladesh
was undertaken by BSCIC in 1991 and published in 1994. The survey found that
1.3million people were employed in handicrafts and cottage industries and over
three quarters are employed in three industries - food preparation, textiles/leather,
and wood/cane/bamboo, these were followed in importance by metal work and
potteries including minor crafts, a total of 940,000 were employed in craft
industries. Exports of general handicrafts reached a peak of US$ 8.7 million in
1991/92 and declined to US$ 6.5 million in 1994/95, 0.2 % of total manufactured
exports. By contrast leather goods exports increased from nothing in 1990/91 to
US$ 6.4 million in 1994/95 and artificial flowers from nil to US$ 800.000. The main
importing countries of generalhandicrafts in order of importance are UK, USA,
Germany, and Italy; for leather goods, USA, Japan and Italy for artificial flowers Italy.
1.4.3 GOVERNMENT POLICY
“The Bangladesh Export Development Strategy 1992-2000 includes measures
topromote handicraft exports and the identification and proposals for the
removingbottlenecks limiting the growth of handicraft exports is the objective of the
presentreport. The incentives relating to bonded import of materials and duty
drawback onimports are not of great importance to the handicraft sector as local
materials aremostly used Even where imported materials are required (e.g. dyes
and chemicals)they are purchased by the small handicraft producers in the local
market”
1.4.4. HANDICRAFT INDUSTRY
Thirty three (33) handicraft enterprises were surveyed in detail comprising.
Organization Number
NGO exporters of handicrafts…………………………………………..…7
NGO or cooperative producers (non-exporters)………………….4
Private manufacturer/exporters ..………………………………..……10
Small private manufacturers (non-exporters)…………………….12
The large NGOs were the main buyers of the products of the small non-
exportingprivate manufacturers as well as the small NGO producers. The large
NGOssurveyed one was 100% export and the remaining sit combined exporting with
localsales through their own retail outlets, mainly in Dhaka. For three, the major
part of their income was export sales, and for three it was in retail sales. “Although
11. the largeNGOs involved in handicrafts are basically traders, they provide a great
deal of support to their cooperative and self-help group suppliers. Assistance may
includetraining, product development and design, start up financial assistance-
managementsupport, transport and materials supply of the eight private
manufacturer/exportersthree were 100% export, three exported the major part of
their output and alsosupplied (mainly NGO) handicraft retail outlets and two sold the
major part of their output through their own retail outlets”
1.4.5 DESIGN, QUALITY AND PRICE
The NGO exporters have often quite large design departments, staffed by art
collegegraduates who have in addition received training and guidance from foreign
designerssupplied by their foreign partners. Private enterprises often depend on the
creativityand the ability of the proprietor to develop new product ideas and designs,
often verysuccessfully. Others simply copy designs from local competitors or foreign
cataloguesor produce to specifications supplied by the customer (which is often one
of the bigNGOs).The quality of the best of the traditional decorative work on Jute
product, Hometestile, Lather goods, Wooden, Bamboo and Candle product are
outstanding.Unfortunately the making up and finishing of articles is usually not up
to the samestandard as the technical work, and often the quality of the assistance
and coatingand other materials also detracts from the overall effect.“The huge cost
projected is unjustified and unsustainable in the long term. Theproposals for making
the centre self-financing are unrealistic. A more focused andcost effective approach
avoiding an unnecessary man-agreement burden and highfixed costs (in particular a
big wage bill) could provide essential support serviceswhich are difficult or
impossible for members to acquire individually, leaving membersto undertake those
tasks most effectively tackled by the individual enterprise”
1.4.6 Demanded Handicrafts in Bangladesh
12. The demanded Handicraft products are available in Bangladesh, these are as below:
Main Product SubProduct
Jute products Twine, hessian, gunny bag, twill,
carpetbacking, wool pack, tarpaulin,
mats,canvas, wall cover, upholstery, and
asfurnishing fabrics of different types
andnatures
Home textile Nakshi Katha,
JamdaniSharee,BenarashiSharee, Bags,
bed cover,Cushion Cover, Ornaments
Box, TablePrettification, Vest, Wall Mat
Lather goods Leather Embroidered bags,
spectaclecases, chair backs, embossed
coin pursewallets made from buff
leather, nappaleather wallets and bags
etc
Wooden Desk Accessories, Kaleidoscope,
KitchenAccessories, Photo Frame, Show
Piece
Bamboo products Basket, Shoe piece, wall accessories
Candle products Birth candle, musical candle, candle doll
1.4.6.1 Jute Product
Jute a natural fiber has been in use for various purposes over the
centuriesthroughthe world. Bangladesh has been blessed with the favorable climate
and the potentialto be the largest grower and export of the best quality jute, the
golden fiber. Jute,having been the most environment friendly natural fiber because
of its inherentunique properties, has great advantages over man-made artificial
polymer fiber,twine, hessian, gunny bag, twill, carpet backing, wool pack, tarpaulin,
mats, canvas,wall cover, upholstery, and as furnishing fabrics of different types and
natures sheetand packing materials on many counts. The uncompromising resolve
to stick to theuse of the best raw jute, strict adherence to buyer’s needs and
specification rigorousquality control and timely delivery Bangladesh has earned an
international eminenceas the principle source of high quality jute products.
1.4.6.2 Home Textile
In recent years, remarkable progress has been made related to the development of
this sector. Home textile products of Bangladesh which include all sorts of towel, bar
mat, nakshikatha, jamdanisharee, benarashisharee, bags, bed cover, cushioncover,
ornaments box, table prettification, vest, wall mat, bathrob, wash cloth, ehramfor
haj, kitchen gloves, dish cloth, mommy napkin, pillow cover etc. are quite popular in
the world market for their quality and design. The government has formulated
13. afavorable police for itsover all development envisaging its potentiality. Producers
for
export at the custom points have been simplified and speedy shipment of goods
hasbeen emphasized for boosting export.“The art of weaving is perhaps as old as
human civilization. Bangladesh can proudlyclaim to have many branches of this
ancient art, of which the best known and mostpopular is the specialty Jamdani,
which is one of the varieties of the famous DhakaMuslin or Mul-mul. For over ten
centuries, the Dhaka area has been renowned for thisfine fabric. So fine was its
texture and quality that it was said to be woven with the"thread of the winds" and
the Greek and the Roman texts mention the "Gangeticmuslins" as one of the most
coveted luxury items. Woven from superfine cotton or silkyarn, jamdani fabric is
embroidered or inlaid on the loom with silk, gold and silver threads. Over the years,
the weavers simplified the designs making them morestylized and geometric.A new
handloom product has been developed by Grameen Bank- a leading non-
government rural-oriented financial institution with trade name "GRAMEEN
CHECK"which is soft, colour fast and 100% cotton, The "Grameen Check" fabric and
theapparels made out of it have already made a breakthrough in the European
marketswith potential of penetrating Other- parts of the world.Another delicate and
finely woven product is the glowing soft silk of Rajshahiinrainbow hues. Very ethnic
are the striking, bold designs which is the trademark of thecolourful, tough fabric
woven by the weavers belonging to the various tribal races whoinhabit the hilly
areas like Cox's Bazar, Rangamati and Sylhet.Apart from those that already have
been mentioned, there are numerous other handloom materials which have made
their particular district of origin famous. Themost notable are sarees of Dhaka,
Tangail and Pabna, Monipuri blankets of SylhetandKhadi or Khaddar products of
Comilla.At present, the number of handlooms in Bangladesh is five hundred
thousand andthere are about one million weavers. Handloom products have shown
decisiveupward trend in the export market since 1972 and Bangladeshi handloom
productswith their distinctive design and superior quality have created a niche for
themselvesin overseas markets. We can now proudly claim to be equipped to meet
the demandfor the latest fashion. An international expert's study reveals that the
technical skill of the weavers of Bangladesh is second to none in the handloom
producing world.The product range of handloom is simply amazing and include
Muslin JamdaniSarees, Bedcovers, Bedsheets, Tapestry, Upholstery, Place mats,
Rugs or Blankets,Satranji or Durees, Crochet, Muslin, Tribal textiles, Silk fabrics, Sofa
covers, BlockPrints, Table cloth and Napkins, Towels, Dusters, Kitchen towels, Gents,
Ladies andBaby Wear and Shirts, Panjabis, Bedsheets and other household linen in
printed,plain or embroidered Khadi”.
1.4.6.3 Lather Good
14. Leather goods of attractive design and finishing are being produced by
skilledcraftsmen, The items produced are handbags, wallets, belts, shoe uppers,
travelbags, pen holders, card holders and many other utility items.
A leather product of export quality require specialized machinery and
equipment(even though the work is very labor intensive and requires a high level of
craft skill)and is usually done in a factory with a high level of division of labor. Only
one exporter visited had the technical standards, and capacity, to manufacture
competitively for export of retail goods, although there are specialist markets which
the smaller factories may be able to exploit. Although it is difficult for small
manufacturers to getthe quantifies they need at competitive prices in the open
market; most of the better quality leather is exported or used in the tanners' own
leather goods and footwear manufacturing units. A large minimum order is required
to get supplies direct from thetanneries. Moreover at present in Bangladeshi
prospective lather products areLeather Embroidered bags, spectacle cases, chair
backs, embossed coin pursewallets made from buff leather, nappa leather wallets
and bags etc
.
1.4.6.4 Wooden
Wooden made handicrafts are popular through the world. Mainly this sector is
popular in producing furniture, dolls, showpieces etc.
1.4.6.5 Bamboo Product
With the resurgence of worldwide interest in cane, development of cane products
hasgained momentum. Bamboo, another tropical grass is often used as a base for
support of cane furniture and handicrafts, Bamboo baskets of various shapes
andsizes are in great demand in Europe and America. Popular items in vogue
arebamboo mirror and picture frames. Split bamboo shoots can be used as wall
lining tocreate the ultimate tropical decor. Bamboo and cane furniture as well as
rattan, grassand cane handicrafts and cane screens are just a few of the products
available in anamazing array.
1.4.6.6 Candle Product
Candle is now a days popular as because of its design, color and low price. It is
veryeasy to give attractive shape to candle and the process also simple and less
costly.
1.4.7 Problem of Handicraft Exporting from Bangladesh
1.Handicrafts, unlike fair trade foods, are not repeat products.
2. Alternative Trading Organizations and fair trade importers havehistorically lost
market share to commercial importers
15. 3. Expenditure is very seasonal.
4. World Shops generally lack professionalism
5. Global recession
6. Stiff competition from China and SE Asia, where labor rates are very low
7. Traditional giftware faces competition from ‘gift experiences’, wherevouchers can
be exchanged for activity days
8. ATOs and importers are focusing on food products to increase sales(especially in
mainstream outlets)
1.4.9 Communication Systems
Our study has been directed communicate to the effective promotion strategy of
Handicrafts; how Bangladeshi Handicrafts very promptly can influence the
worldmarket from setting home situations? So, the convenient of the promotion
Handicraftsin the world markets we may apply few communication systems which
will be moreeffective for those who are exporter in Bangladesh. The communication
systems areas follows
1.4.9.1 Media Campaign
Bangladesh handy craft manufacturers can attain world wide export
opportunitythrough media campaigns .To promote awareness about handy crafts
among thepeople, media campaigning is very vital promotional activities. To
visualize andprovide information about handy crafts, advertising is very effective as
well ascommunicable.
1.4.9.1 Direct Export:
Direct export is one of the most popular and profitable media for the
exporters.Thorough these media exporters attract the foreign importers and by
satisfying their demand exporters export the goods directly to the importer’s
country.
1.4.9.2 Online Marketing
Online Marketing facilitates number related activities such as product
advertisement,order, payment and place requirement etc.PhilipKotler& Gray
Armstrong, Principles of marketing, Seventh Edition,
16. CHAPTER 15 PROMOTING PRODUCTS: MARKETING COMMUNICATION STRATEGY
. Page
#479
As prior , we assumed, Bangladesh is a cost effective handy craft
manufacturingcountry in the world but they fail to satisfy the world market quality
handy craftsdemand within a cheaper price , only because of ineffective
communication system.From our view point, through online , can place our products
, the importers cangive their specification of desired product in accordance their
requirement andexporters also state their requirement about their products. So its
very easier way totransaction between buyers and sellers and also transparency is
there. We provide indetail in Index, now we just provide the sources in below:
1.4.9.3 National & International trade fare
Bangladesh is developing country and growing up very fast. As because we
aredeveloping country , so to reduce the rate of unemployment, to save
foreignexchange , also use inexpensive and abundant resources, to increase
localproduction, should have to focus on local and international operation by
export,invite foreign importers who are interested to buy handy crafts from
Bangladeshetc.
1.4.9.4 Local & International Advertisement
The world is very much competitive now and Medias are very strong and available
toreach almost every one in the world. So advertising is very important.Advertising
locally and internationally is now a days very attractive and effective for any
product.
1.4.9.5 Personal selling
Personal selling means the personal presentation of the product by the
companies’sales force. This promotion tool builds strong customer
relationship(Chapter 15 Page 461, Principles of Marketing. By Philip Kotler& Gary
Armstrong)
1.5 Government Facilities
To attract foreign direct investors, the government should take initiative and
correctiveactions to invest our country. The government should provide all
protection andalso political stability so that they feel secure to invest here and also
cover their return as well as profit. The necessary sources are given below:
1.7 Conclusion
17. Opportunities also exist in export markets as these markets are exposed to
theunique design characteristics of Handicrafts. Small amounts of handicrafts
arealready being exported to Europe, Japan and the U.S. however exporters
continue tobe confronted by numerous obstacles in meeting the quantity and cost
demands of these world wide markets. In order for exporters to be able to take
advantage of neweconomic opportunities and capture new markets the need
assistance to promotionour production capacity: Up-gradation the quality of
Handicrafts products will be thestandards demanded by potential buyers and
overcome the many obstacles situationof our country. The NGO’s Project and local
private organization also can be providedthe necessary support to the Export
Promotion Department in the Ministry of Commerce, to provide trouble shooting
help desk services, government togovernment liaison, and international promotion
of Bangladeshi Handicraft products.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/15458779/Research-Proposal-Handicrafts
ector Information in French
Light Engineering Handicrafts Leather Textile Silk Shrimps-
Fishes Information Technology
Light Engineering
The production of light industrial materials is expanding in Bangladesh. It provides
Bangladesh with a ground for generating important services. The country counts on
more than 30,000 small production units, more or less mechanized, in light industry
sector. All forms of machines/tools are manufactured in Bangladesh, starting from
simple machines for domestic use to complex products for use in heavy industry. For
example, the manufacture of “bicycles’ that dominates the light industry in
Bangladesh earned an amount of $52.47 million through exports in 2002-2003 as
against the production in the previous year that earned $31.10 million. The country
exports mainly to the UK, Holland, Ukraine, Italy, Belgium, Denmark, Malaysia, the
USA, Australia and Saudi Arabia.
Handicrafts
18. The handicraft works in Bangladesh is symbolic of the country’s rich cultural
heritage that has been preserved through centuries. The local craftsmen do not
engage themselves in silk and weaving only. The country also produces baskets,
bags, pottery, paintings, toys, carpets, decoration pieces such as frames, boxes,
candleholders etc. which can be produced out of jute, leather, wood and textile.
The destinations of exports are Italy, the USA, France, Holland, Germany, Japan,
Australia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Denmark and
Switzerland.
Often seen as an ideal of a principled advertising campaign, it is sometimes very
difficult to obtain an order within time in the field of handicraft industry.
On the spot, you shall find more reliable agents or the companies specialised in the
export of decoration tools. For further information, you can always contact the
CCIFB.
Leather
Bangladesh is capable of producing 180 million square feet of leather per year. The
Bangladeshi leather remains one of quality. There exists a number of leather
industries in Bangladesh far above the standard of cottage industry. More than 80%
of the country’s annual production is exported throughout the world. The products
manufactured can either be finished or semi-finished such as gloves, sports shoes,
bags/accessories, suitcases etc.
The country counts on 25 shoe industries being able to produce in large quantity
and another 2500 small units throughout the country.
The local leather industries export their products to 53 countries across the world,
and the declared profits in 2002-2003 were $230 million.
Textile
Bangladesh is one of the leading manufacturers and exporters of textile goods in
the world. The sector includes clothing, cuddly toys, shoes and leather. The France-
Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIFB) is, thus, in permanent
contact with the local federation of textile network (Bangladesh Garments
Manufacturers and Exporters Association, www.BMGEA.com)) in order to bring
together the largest manufacturers of textiles in the country.
The textile industry of Bangladesh is composed of 4000 production units that
fulfilled an export amounting to US$ 6.9 millions in 2005 and to date enjoys a strong
growth (6% in 2008).
Silk
19. The France-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIFB) works regularly
with ‘the Silk Manufacturers and Exporters Association’ of Bangladesh. The silk of
Bangladesh is well-known for its quality and colors <Golden Silk>. The silk is mainly
produced for the local markets. Locally, the silk is generally used for traditional
dresses, cushions, ties, scarves etc. Few companies have started exporting it to
Europe and the United Sates.
Shrimps-Fishes
A Market in Full-growth
Exports of frozen shrimps and fishes from 1990 to 2007
Exportable Products
–Frozen shrimps
–Frozen fishes
–Fresh fishes
–Frozen fish fillets and steaks and rays
–Crabs et shell-fishes, fresh or frozen –Prepared frozen dishes
20. It is to be noted that Europe is the primary client with 37% of PDM
Contrary to the countries of Asia, the Europeans prefer shrimps to fishes..
You can make a request to the CCIFB for more information on the types
and sizes of shrimps
The CCIFB possesses the list of Bangladeshi exporters.
The CCIFB is at your disposition for further information
21. The Information Technology in Bangladesh
Source: Basis(Bangladesh Association of Software & Information Services)
There exist near about 8000
diploma engineers in Bangladesh.
The sector employs : - 12 000
persons in animation/ graphics/
web design - 8 000 in web
publishing 5 000 in construction/
mechanical architecture
400 enterprises are registered as
« Software and IT Enable
services » in Bangladesh The
sector employs 12 000 qualified
employees
The IT and Export
The European Union has recently
identified Bangladesh as one of the 20
best destinations for
outsourcing IT.
A hundred of enterprises export to more
than 30 different countries.
22. The USA 10
Denmark 20
The UK 10
Japan 10
Australia 10
Germany 8
The Middle
East
10
http://www.ccifb.org/sector_info.php
Modernisation of handicrafts in
Bangladesh
23. People have a distinctive sense of art. From the beginning of the civilisation they
have created innumerable things as a blossom of this sense. They have done it from
necessity or even unnecessarily because they are bound to do it. Some things they
have preserved and made these a part of their living, their tradition. Some things
they have abandoned as by anyway they feel these unnecessary.
Handicrafts are by nature traditional. By using their primitive instruments, hands,
people make these to use in their daily life. It is important to mention that most of
the time handicrafts have an aesthetic view and artistic value. For this reason,
historically the upper class of the society has a lust for these. In the timeline of
history, patronised by the higher class people at different times, different pieces of
handicrafts reached the peak of development and popularity.
The handicraft products that are available in Bangladesh can be categorised as
follows:
Of late, handicrafts have been exposed to commercialisation. Now, in Bangladesh,
considering its potentiality in local and international markets, people involved in this
sector claim for modernisation. New technologies and market competition always
pressurise us to take steps to modernise this sector. Now, question is: how will we
modernise this sector?
According to some modernists, tradition is somehow a barrier to modernisation. But,
without traditional touch, handicrafts will lose one of their unique features. Another
fact is “All modernising society cannibalises their tradition, and in no modern society
traditional artisans are survived.” Japan, USA, European countries, all have done
this. But in this case, China, India and Vietnam are different. China has preserved
her cultural industries according to her own way by giving patronisation and policy-
help. The modernisation concept is also slightly different there. The Chinese don’t
24. think being modernized, that is, being westernised. Their subjects, materials,
designs etc, have been developed but not by abandoning tradition. “Jingdezhen in
Jiangxi Province is a city famous for its 1,000-year-old handicraft industry, mainly
porcelain making.” The town, Lukang of Taiwan, is claimed to be the ‘Mecca’ of
traditional handicrafts.
So, to modernise our handicrafts industry what model we will choose is a matter of
some serious thought. However, our commerce minister has announced to
formulate a national Handicraft Policy and we are passionately waiting for this.
Because for modernisation or for any other development, policy support can act as
a major contributor.
Modernisation means creating well-trained artisan groups, adoption of technology in
the value creation process, and establishing supporting institutions to a standard
that will ensure competitive position of handicrafts in local and international
markets.
Creating well-trained artisan groups: “Craft works are involved with social
relationships between producers and customers. The producers transfer social
meaning to their products; customers decode the meaning and reinterpret it.
Through this interaction, customers and producers share the same meanings, and
the crafts are purchased”. So, the people making handicrafts exhibit our social
meanings derived from our values, cultural heritage, and tradition. To present the
cultural heritage in the best way, the work of well-trained artisans is a good option.
Now in Bangladesh, most handicrafts are produced, traded and exported by the
giant non-government organisations (NGOs) and private enterprises. Among them,
KaruponnoRangpur, Dhaka Trade, Kumudini, Aarong, Nipun crafts, Creation and
Pioneers are exporting handicrafts to foreign countries. In these firms, there are
professional designers with technical expertise. They design the products and
skilled or semi-skilled people living in rural areas work at the dictation of the
designers. In this case, creativity from the root level is automatically being
discouraged.
On the other hand, there are so many traditional artisan groups like potters, tatis,
embroidery artisans, wooden craft artisans etc, living around the country who are
supposed to be extinct because of lack of patronisation. The government here can
choose these groups and can provide funding and proper training on technology
implications, current trends and designs etc, under community-empowerment
projects. Giving award and prize money on skills and expertise can stimulate this
process of development. Arranging handicrafts fairs at national and international
levels and encouraging the award-winner craftsmen to participate in these fairs can
change the current situation.
25. Adoption of technology: From production to sale to the customers, adoption of
technology is a must to modernise the sector. Use of technology can reduce time
and effort of the workers. By this way it can help to reduce cost and improve quality
and make it competitive in the market. Re-sizing, shaping, designing, carding, and
dyeing need technologies that the semi-skilled and unskilled workers are hardly able
to use.
Establishing and strengthening supporting institutions: Bangladesh Small and
Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC) is responsible for promoting and caring the
handicrafts industry. But unfortunately it has failed to carry out its responsibility due
to corruption and mismanagement. So employing efficient and honest managers is
a must to strengthen the BSCIC.
In line with this, establishing training centres at district levels, considering the
specialisation of the locality, is necessary. For example, Tangail is specialised for
“tater sari”. So training on bringing versatility in making this kind of sari will be
effective here.
Combined research & development (R&D) centre: The government can establish a
combined research and development (R&D) centre including different departments
for different varieties of handicraft items. In this centre, experts will research the
traditional design, styles and mode of production and develop new types of design,
fashion and modes that will strengthen our competitive position in the international
market. Students of fine arts and fashion graduates can work as interns here.
Common Facility Centre: The Bangladesh Handicrafts Manufacturers and Exporters
Association, popularly known as BanglaCrafthas been demanding to establish a
Common Facility Centre (CFC). CFC can enable the craftsmen to progress from
individualisedlabour intensive process to a relatively easier production which can
enhance their economic progress. The CFC can also be a platform for testing and
establishing newer designs and prototypes as well. This is imperative so as to make
the product more cost effective, marketable and self sustainable.
A suitable common facility centre can greatly assist craft clusters to take advantage
of modern facilities and move at par with the changing industrial and market
scenario. This will help them achieve greater profitability along with necessary skill
enhancement.
As the market of our handicrafts is expanding in international arena, modernisation
in this sector is so necessary to compete well. The government should come forward
with the policy support and community empowerment projects. NGOs also should
work for modernisation as they are already involved effectively with this sector. By
their managerial improvement, new technology adoption private enterprises also
can contribute to the modernisation of the handicrafts sector.
26. http://futurestartup.com/2011/09/27/modernisation-of-handicrafts-in-bangladesh/
Recognising handicrafts as an industrial sector
MomtazUddin Ahmed concluding his two-part article on 'Prospects for sustained
growth of an export-oriented industry: The case for handicrafts in Bangladesh'
According to the industry insiders, the handicraft sector suffers from myriads of
operational constraints due to inherent weaknesses affecting their organisational
structure and functional characteristics. Since the production base is informal and
unorganised and dominated by the grassroots artisans with limited access to
investible resources, especially capital, technology and various promotional support
assistance from the Government, they languish under a complex of critical
operational bottlenecks. Across the board, the primary obstacles facing the small
artisans and the exporters include: shortage of raw materials, shortage of
institutional credits at affordable costs, lack of skilled artisans and workers, lack of
training and research facilities, lack of modern designs and technical support and
that of adequate access to markets.
Policy gaps: While Bangladesh has had an illustrious tradition in the production and
export of handicrafts spread over centuries, the industry has lost its past glory with
many of its artifacts meeting the fate of gradual extinction. Due to lack of proper
patronage, loss of dignity of the artisans and crafts people, and intrusion of highly
commercialised and mechanised mass production systems many of the traditional
handicraft products lost their markets. As a result, many producers, including their
possible successors, are leaving their age-old vocations limiting the prospects for
inter-generation transfer of skills and craftsmanship.
Currently, government assistance towards development of the handicraft sector in
Bangladesh has been rather minimal. Apparently, the activities do not seem to be
accorded the status of a separate industrial sector in any of the industrialisation
policies of the country. Only an oblique reference is made to handicrafts as one of
the "Thrust sectors" placed at number 29 of the thrust sector list in Annex 1 of
Industrial Policy 2005 and at number 19 in Annex 2 of the Industrial Policy 2010.
Other than envisaging the provision of special investment incentives and financial
27. facilities, tax exemptions and depreciation allowances to the thrust sector industries
as a whole, selected product categories such as black smithies, pottery, cane and
bamboo products, mats, and metal wares etc, are also envisaged to receive some
concessional benefits under the small and cottage industries development
programmes. Additionally, establishment of a fashion design and training institute
at Mirpur in Dhaka, and special credit facilities for producers of Nakshikatha,
bamboo products and potteries in different locations of the country etc. are some of
the measures currently being taken by the Government, but at a slow pace.
However, these are only isolated and piecemeal efforts and fall far short of an
integrated and comprehensive national policy support for providing proactive
support to revive the past glory and ensure sustained growth of a vibrant, dynamic,
and internationally competitive handicrafts industries sector in the country.
Corresponding to the policy gap, there is also an institutional gap facing the
handicraft sector. For example, no public sector agency is designated in Bangladesh
for catering to the promotional services to the sector. Only BSCIC (Bangladesh Small
and Cottage Industries Corporation) by default is in a position to deliver limited
support services such as skill development training and design improvement
services, though the ground reality in this regard is rather different. This scenario is
in sharp contrast with the regional experience available from the neighbouring
countries such as India, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Philippines where an
extensive network of public and private institutions deliver comprehensive package
of support services to the Handicrafts industries sector. For example, the All India
Handicrafts Board, the Export Promotional Council for Handicrafts, and the
Handicrafts and Handloom Exports Corporation of India, etc., are together playing
important roles to promote exports of Indian Handicrafts. In contrast, the EPB
(Export Promotion Bureau) in Bangladesh does not even have a separate cell to
provide exclusive services to the Handicrafts exporters.
Suggestions: To overcome the present hurdles and ensure sustained development of
the handicraft sector in Bangladesh, the important policy suggestions may include
the following:
* Declaring a separate national policy recognising handicrafts as an "industrial
sector" in its own right following the example of Malaysia where a separate
handicrafts policy i.e. "National Crafts Policy" is in operation.
* Setting up a separate Industrial Park near the capital city Dhaka to ensure delivery
of common production and marketing facilities to the artisans and the crafts people.
* Encouraging commercial production of raw materials for handicrafts to encourage
setting up of new and expanding existing craft activities facilitating easy availability
of raw materials and promoting growth of the tourism industry to assist domestic
market expansion.
28. * Provision of financial, fiscal, technological and infrastructural facilities at affordable
costs to set up new craft production units and facilitate growth and expansion of the
existing activities.
* Development of Common Service Delivery Centres (i.e. including supply of raw
materials, technical assistance, and marketing assistance) in close proximity to the
clusters of different potential craft activities spread around the country.
* Continued research on design, quality improvements and quality control, design
innovation and adaptation jointly by all relevant stakeholders and their effective
dissemination to the producers and the exporters, under the special initiatives of
BSCIC.
* Continuation of the current incentive package to the exporters and extension of
coverage of more products (beyond current 12) under the current export incentive
package such as cash incentives, tax exemption and GSP facilities.
* Establishment of Design and Sales Centres in Dhaka and other strategic locations
(i.e. close to the craft clusters). Reorganisation and modernisation of the BSCIC
Design Centre is crucially important to enable effective utilisation of its services by
the artisans and the crafts people.
Finally, for adequate and efficient implementation of the above policy package a
Bangladesh Handicrafts Development Corporation (BHDC) may be set up under the
Ministry of Industries as the modal agency for delivering extensive promotion and
support services to the handicraft sector.
DrMomtazUddin Ahmed is Professor of Economics, University of Dhaka.
ahmed_1947@hotmail.com
http://www.thefinancialexpress-bd.com/index.php?
ref=MjBfMTBfMTJfMTJfMV85Ml8xNDY1NTE
30. Traditional hand knitting with two needles replacing machine knitting as done by
HathayBunano with these baby hats. Fred Burke
Samantha Morshed
Today, handicrafts represent less than 1 percent of exports from Bangladesh. In
contrast, the global market for handicrafts is estimated to be close to $100 billion.
Surely this represents a huge opportunity for this country in terms of rural
employment creation.
The rural areas of Bangladesh are filled with women eager to show their fine
handicraft skills, being naturally proficient with stitches passed down from mother
to daughter and all having a genuine interest in crafts.
For many years textile handicrafts have been seen as an opportunity for the
creation of rural employment and the alleviation of poverty and many NGOs have
diversified into production of all sorts of fabric items.
Despite investment, mainly from international donors, the growth of the industry
has been starkly different from its cousin the garment industry, which now
dominates more than 70 percent of Bangladesh's GDP. Clearly something isn't
working.
A great deal of effort has been put into the promotion and production of
"NakshiKantha", a traditional and beautiful embroidery stitch, firmly rooted in this
country and representing the rich cultural heritage of Bangladesh. But the rest of
the world knows little about it.
This is not so surprising since much of the western world has lost its inherited
tradition of embroidery and whilst there are experts in all countries, a vast majority
of western women would find it difficult to distinguish hand embroidery from
machine embroidery, let alone recognise the specific differences of embroidery from
various regions of the world.
As with all industries, textile handicrafts are an ever-evolving industry representing
a changing world where the interest in all things hand-made remains very strong,
31. and hand-made products extremely desirable, but where interest in the tradition of
the handicraft has lost its prominence.
Textile handicrafts in Bangladesh must therefore change with the times, just as the
garments industry does seasonally, where styles change with fashion trends.
Without a doubt, the global market for handicrafts and all things hand-made is
expanding. When customers are faced with two products of similar price, quality
and design, they will invariably select hand-made over mass produced. The price
premium of hand-made items is small and whilst it is possible to make competitively
priced handicrafts in Bangladesh, it is important to understand that pricing is one of
the key factors to success in expanding this industry.
Changing designs is not a new concept in Bangladesh handicrafts and many donor-
funded projects have been developed and run around the concept of bringing in
designers to work with rural artisans to help them make new designs to meet the
new demands of the international marketplace.
But the world is a fast moving place and when the designers have left, who will be
around to continually develop new products with these artisans?
Since success in this area will only be achieved by meeting the needs of the
customer, we must first consider what the customer is looking for. International
buyers of hand-made products are clear in their requirements. They need large
volumes, consistently high quality, timely delivery and effective communication. If
the Bangladesh textile handicraft sector can provide all this, then the likelihood is
that the buyers will supply the designs. Projects bringing in designers to work with
artisans for short periods of time equally bringing small-scale success for only a
short period will no longer be necessary.
Large volumes cannot be produced by a single small group of artisans. Consistency
in quality cannot be maintained over different groups of artisans where there is no
connection between them. Timely delivery is a challenge to us all everyday and so
much more so to artisans with little or no understanding of the countries that their
products are destined for. Effective communication requires literacy, language skills
32. and IT skills and equipment in a world where customers want questions answered
immediately.
Empowering small groups of artisans is therefore not likely to bring significant
growth in this industry.
There are significant similarities between the garments industry and the production
of textile handicrafts. They both need good quality raw materials, effective sampling
facilities and centralised quality control, finishing, packing and despatch. Whilst the
garments industry has all manufacture under the same roof as well, clearly the
major production work for handicrafts can be done in various rural parts of the
country in small-scale groups of artisans, both living and working locally.
Access to good quality raw materials is a fundamental problem for the current
model of handicraft production through small disparate groups of artisans. Whilst
Bangladesh is full of high quality raw materials, imported and produced for the
garments industry, these are not available in small scale to groups of handicraft
producers. The whole production process for raw materials here is geared towards
volume.
Small-scale handicraft producers are therefore left to buy what is available in the
open market and often with yarns and fabrics to 'bucket dye' in their own homes.
Without consistency of raw materials, how can we ever achieve consistency of
finished handicraft products?
In order to maximise the potential of the handicrafts industry we need to embrace
all that is good and successful about artisan production in small rural groups and
combine this with lessons learnt in large volume production by the garments
industry.
In order to expand the rural production of handicrafts specifically for export we need
to combine the craft skills of the artisans with the business skills of SMEs, who could
provide all the centralised services along with bulk purchasing of raw materials,
sampling, marketing and communication.
33. It is unrealistic to assume that with a little training, a new design or two and some
capacity building, a small group of artisans will be able to secure sales to stores
overseas. Similarly, it is unrealistic to assume that large department stores in the
west, would be interested to source tiny volumes of one particular product from a
single supplier in a far away land.
Generally retail companies will place a limit on the number of suppliers that they
choose to buy from in order that they can manage administratively. So not only
must the supplier be able to make volume, but will also need to be able to make a
whole range in volume in order to have a chance of competing to supply.
Without a doubt, expansion of the textile handicraft industry in Bangladesh would
bring enormous direct benefits to the rural population, who are waiting for an
opportunity to work and become adept at textile handicraft production.
Expansion of this industry through existing markets, rather than aiming for the
creation of markets, would be most cost and time effective. Traditional "carcupi"
stitching, with the finished look of a modern chain stitch, can easily be used to
replace stitching which might previously have been made by machine. Traditional
hand knitting with two needles can easily be used to make small items, which can
be time-consuming by knitting machine. Traditional crochet has no machine
alternative though.
The method of making handloom fabrics is much more flexible than machines in
creating diversity in cloth. Diversification of this industry therefore is not so much
about creating new methods and developing new markets as about adapting
existing skills to the requirements of today's marketplace and the needs of today's
buyers.
In order to maximise the potential of the handicrafts industry, we need to combine
the skills of the artisans and the SMEs, to diversify by adaptation. Finally, the
banking sector needs to address the needs of this industry with applicable products
and services.
It was almost 30 years ago that the Letter of Credit (L/C) became the primary
instrument of choice for the garments industry in Bangladesh and the banking
34. sector enabled business to be conducted by releasing part-payments against the
value of L/Cs, so that factories could start production of orders.
While the L/C is not ideal for the handicraft sector, other services, like reduced
interest rates, low collateral, short-term loans and both international and domestic
factoring, will enable expansion of this industry.
Currently Bangladeshi handicraft exports represent only a tiny fraction of the global
market, maybe with some slight changes in emphasis, Bangladesh has a real
opportunity to become a significant global player in a thriving and expanding
industry.
The writer is the CEO of HathayBunano and welcomes comments at
hathaybunano@gmail.com.
http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=78194