A national salt policy will ensure fair pricing and safeguard the interests of salt farmers, said Md. Saiful Islam, Chairman of BSCIC, during a consultative meeting in Cox’s Bazar on Thursday.
Speaking as chief guest at the event, organised to draft the National Salt Policy 2026, he highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts for the welfare of salt farmers. These include training in modern salt farming, financial incentives, health cards, and a comprehensive farmer database.
He stressed the need to reduce salt imports and increase local production to ensure fair prices for farmers. He also called for support during the off-season, labour rights, consumer protection, and improved infrastructure such as canals, embankments, roads, warehouses, and sheds.
The meeting, part of the ILO-supported ISEC project, was jointly organised by BSCIC, Inovision Consulting, and ILO. Participants included farmers, mill owners, local authorities, private sector stakeholders, and development partners.
Speakers noted that 95% of the country’s salt is produced in Cox’s Bazar, supporting 2.5 million people. Farmers raised concerns over rising costs, low prices, and poor infrastructure. They demanded subsidies, improved working conditions, and regulation of syndicates.
The event concluded with a call for an inclusive, sustainable, and labour-friendly salt industry.
