Closed sugar mills will be reopened: Industries adviser

Industries Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan has announced plans to revive sugar mills that were closed during the previous "fascist government".

He made the remarks today during the inauguration of the 88th sugarcane crushing season (2025-26) at Carew and Co (Bangladesh) Ltd in Darshana upazila of Chuadanga.

"During the previous fascist administration, many industrial units across the country, especially sugar mills, were shut down one after another. We have now taken the initiative to reopen them, and some mills are already operational," the adviser said.

The official opening of the crushing season was marked by the ceremonial cane toss at the mill's Can Carrier (Donga) facility in the afternoon.

He said the mill's modernisation and replacement of sugarcane crushing and sugar production machinery under the BMRI project will begin soon.

"I had expected BMRI to be operational today, but a few tasks remain. Authorities have assured me it will be activated shortly, and we aim to launch it very soon," Adilur said.

He added that the government has already adopted a practical five-year roadmap to address the issues of sugarcane farmers, labourers, and temporary workers, while also boosting production.

The adviser said their commitment is not only to keep the mills running but also to increase production, modernise facilities, protect workers' rights and safeguard farmers' interests.

Chaired by Rashidul Hasan, chairman of Bangladesh Sugar and Food Industries Corporation (BSFIC), Khulna Range DIG Md Rezaul Haque, Deputy Commissioner of the district Mohammad Kamal Hossain, and Superintendent of Police Mohammad Monirul Islam, among others, were present at the event.