The soft glow of chandeliers illuminated the polished ceramic tiles as industry leaders, architects, and innovators gathered at the Sheraton Hotel in Dhaka. The air was filled with excitement as enthusiasts and professionals came together to celebrate the 5th anniversary of Ceramic Bangladesh Magazine. The event, styled “Shaping Bangladesh: Designing Tomorrow, Building Today,” was more than just a conference — it was a call to action for Bangladesh’s construction, real estate, and ceramic industries to embrace sustainability, innovation, and resilience. This milestone event marked a significant achievement for the publication, which has become a cornerstone of the ceramic industry in Bangladesh.
Held on 30 January 2025, the event brought together experts to discuss the evolving landscape of architecture, engineering, and sustainable building materials. From leading ceramic manufacturers to top architects, the gathering aimed to chart a vision for a greener, more efficient Bangladesh.
Preparing for the Future and Post-LDC Impact
One of the central themes was Bangladesh’s upcoming graduation from its least-developed country (LDC) status in 2026. Chief guest SK Bashiruddin, Commerce Adviser to the interim government, emphasised the need for businesses to prepare for the challenges ahead. “In the coming years, Bangladesh will face numerous challenges following the LDC graduation. Innovation is crucial for progress. Corruption and bureaucratic complexities have hindered business growth over the past 15 years, but our focus should be on sustainability to foster industrial growth,” he said. He called for collaboration among stakeholders to lower operational costs, innovate, and create a more business-friendly environment. He acknowledged the ceramic industry’s contributions, commending entrepreneurs for their innovative products that enhance both aesthetics and functionality in modern infrastructure.
Special guest, RAJUK Chairman Major General (retd) Mohammad Siddiqur Rahman Sarker, stated that even 100-storey buildings would be permitted if built in an environmentally friendly manner. Hence, the DAP (Detailed Area Plan) is being amended.
The seminar commenced with a grand welcome address by Mr. Irfan Uddin, the Editor-in-Chief of Ceramic Bangladesh Magazine, who reflected on its journey over the past five years. He expressed gratitude to the readers, contributors, and industry partners who have supported the magazine’s mission to promote and celebrate the country’s ceramic industry.
Innovation & Sustainability in Construction
The event featured two thought-provoking panel discussions. The first session, “Innovation for a Sustainable Future: Exploring Material Innovations & Sustainability,” moderated by Dr. Amir Ahmed, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Real Estate at Daffodil International University, focused on cutting-edge sustainable materials and circular economy principles in the real estate and construction sector. The second session, “Building a Greener Future: The Role of Sustainability in Architecture,” led by Architect Zannat Jui, explored green building certifications, passive design strategies, and the role of technology in climate-resilient infrastructure.
Several notable speakers included esteemed professors and architects, such as former BUET Prof. Dr. M Shamim Z Bosunia, Architect Prof. Abu Sayeed M Ahmed, Ar. Prof. Rafiq Azam, Ar. Jalal Ahmed, Ar. Nazli Hussain, Ar. Bayejid Mahbub Khondker, Ar. Didarul Islam Bhuiyan Dipu, Ar. Khondoker Asifuzzaman Rajan, RAJUK Chief Engineer Mohammad Nurul Islam, Engr. Shamsul Alam, Executive Director (Design) of Concord Real Estate Limited Ar. Faisal Ahmed, Managing Director of BTI Engr. Faizur Rahman Khan, Chief Operating Officer of AkijBashir Group Mohammad Khourshed Alam, Chief Operating Officer of Meghna Ceramics Industries AKM Ziaul Islam, Director of GPH Ispat Salehin Musfique Sadaf, Chief Business Officer of Metrocem Cement Ltd. Asadul Haque Sufyani, Consultant of Khadim Ceramics Babor Hossain, and Senior Vice President of BCMEA Mohammad Mamunur Rashid emphasized on the vital role Ceramic Bangladesh Magazine has played in showcasing architectural innovations.
Ar. Professor Rafiq Azam, the Principal Architect of SHATOTTO Architecture for Green Living, and Ar. Professor Dr. Abu Sayeed M. Ahmed, the President of the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB), delivered two distinct keynote speeches titled “The Art of Social Changes” and “Reviving the Roots: Conservation and Restoration Progress in Bangladesh,” respectively.
Chief Operating Officer (COO) of AkijBashir Group Mohammad Khourshed Alam said the crisis of gas and electricity is the biggest challenge for industries in the country right now. Gas is crucial for the ceramic industry’s development. “However, we have to focus on solar energy to continue industries. Technology adaptation should be focused as well,” he added.
AKM Ziaul Islam, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Meghna Ceramic Ind. Ltd, said the ceramic industry has huge opportunities. There is a need to increase the interaction between industries and academia.
Salehin Musfique Sadaf, Director of Strategy & Transformation at GPH Ispat, emphasized that Bangladesh lacks sufficient raw materials to meet its demands. He pointed out that energy sources such as gas or coal are also considered raw materials. Therefore, the country must focus on adequate coal as a locally cheaper energy source and adopting recycling methods to increase the use of recycled construction materials. He stressed the importance of research and development (R&D) in achieving these goals.
Role of the Ceramic Industry
BCMEA President Moynul Islam reiterated the ceramic industry’s commitment to sustainability, highlighting the need for government support and private sector collaboration to foster long-term growth and global competitiveness. Industry leaders stressed the need for increased research and development (R&D) in using recycled construction materials and ensuring sustainable building practices. As Bangladesh moves toward rapid urbanisation and economic transformation, “Shaping Bangladesh: Designing Tomorrow, Building Today” underscored the need for innovation, sustainability, and resilience. The discussions at the event served as blueprints for a more sustainable Bangladesh.
Moynul Islam also said, “Bangladesh’s upcoming LDC graduation in 2026 presents many challenges for the local ceramic industry. With the loss of preferential market access, export tariffs are likely to increase, making our products less competitive in global markets. In addition, imports will also increase due to trade liberalization and FTAs in the post-LDC period. To maintain our position, we must focus on innovation, quality enhancement, and cost efficiency. Strengthening partnerships, investing in modern technologies, and adopting sustainable practices will be key to navigating this transition and positioning Bangladesh as a trusted ceramic exporter in the region.”
Sustainability Efforts
Mohammad Mamunur Rashid, Senior Vice President, BCMEA, said the ceramic industry in the country is increasingly embracing sustainability by aligning with green building codes and adopting energy-efficient technologies. Manufacturers are exploring renewable energy sources, recycling production waste, and innovating eco-friendly product lines. Collaboration between the government and private sector is essential to drive these initiatives forward, according to him. “With proper policy support and investment in research, we can create a more resilient industry that not only meets global compliance standards but also contributes to a greener future for Bangladesh,” he added.
Looking Ahead
BCMEA General Secretary Irfan Uddin emphasized the importance of innovation and policy support for the sustainable growth of the ceramic industry. He highlighted the role of industry collaboration in overcoming challenges and strengthening global competitiveness. As the event concluded with the cutting of the cake, the Editor-in-Chief of CBM, Irfan Uddin shared the magazine’s vision for the future. With a commitment to continuing its role as a leading voice in the ceramic industry, Ceramic Bangladesh Magazine aims to expand its reach, introduce new features, and further support the growth and development of the industry. The speakers, along with other industry experts, shared their insights and experiences, making the event a memorable and enriching experience for all attendees.
Awards and Recognitions
To honour outstanding contributions to the ceramic industry, Ceramic Bangladesh Magazine presented awards to individuals and organizations that have made significant impacts. The awards ceremony was a moment of pride and celebration, recognising the hard work and dedication of those who have helped shape the industry.
Exhibition and Networking
An exhibition showcasing the latest products and innovations in the ceramic industry was a major attraction at the event. Attendees had the opportunity to explore a wide range of ceramic products, from tableware to tiles, and interact with exhibitors. The exhibition provided a valuable networking opportunity for industry professionals to connect, collaborate, and forge new partnerships.
Economic Snapshot: A Resilient Industry Amid Challenges
Despite facing setbacks in FY 2023-24, Bangladesh’s ceramic industry remains a vital contributor to the nation’s economy. The sector’s export volume declined by nearly 2%, standing at Tk 5.92 billion, compared to Tk 6.03 billion in the previous fiscal year, according to BCMEA. However, local sales showed a modest 2.55% growth, reaching Tk 76.42 billion. The industry’s total investment surged to Tk 184.25 billion in FY24, reflecting continued investor confidence. Direct employment dropped by 7% to 52,500, though the sector still engages around 0.5 million workers both directly and indirectly. With products exported to over 50 countries and strategic market advantages through GSP facilities, the ceramic sector holds significant potential to bolster Bangladesh’s export earnings while aligning with global sustainability and innovation trends.
Sponsors and Partners
The event was supported by leading names in the ceramic industry. Akij Ceramics Ltd. participated as the Platinum Sponsor, while Meghna Ceramic Ind. Ltd. and X-Ceramics Ltd. were powered by sponsors. Sheltech Ceramics Ltd., DBL Ceramics Ltd., and Mir Ceramic Ltd. joined as associated sponsors. RAK Ceramics contributed as the Gift Partner, and The Business Standard served as the Media Partner. This gathering marked a significant step toward aligning Bangladesh’s infrastructure development with global best practices, ensuring the country is ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow with confidence and creativity.
The 5th anniversary seminar of Ceramic Bangladesh Magazine was a resounding success, reflecting the magazine’s dedication to excellence and its pivotal role in the ceramic industry. The event not only celebrated past achievements but also set the stage for a promising future.
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