Commerce and Industry Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir on Monday said no entity would be allowed to operate in the ship recycling industry in the future without obtaining a green licence.

He said the government would provide all necessary technical and policy support to help businesses comply with green licensing requirements.

He made the remarks while speaking to journalists after visiting several ship recycling yards in Sitakunda.

Muktadir said Bangladesh was once a global leader in the ship recycling industry, so the government was working to restore the country's leading position.

“Currently, 31 ship recycling yards have obtained green licences. Those yet to secure green licences will also have to meet the required standards. The government will provide them with the necessary technical support,” he said.

Referring to the industry's past, he said there had been numerous allegations of environmental pollution, labour exploitation and unsafe working conditions.

However, he said ship recycling operations are now being carried out scientifically at green yards in compliance with international standards.

The minister said the government would take strict action if ship recycling businesses faced any law and order problems.

“If necessary, the relevant ministries, law enforcement agencies and local administrations will be directed to take appropriate measures,” he added.

On the country’s energy crisis, Muktadir acknowledged that the shortage of natural gas had been a long-standing problem.

President of the Bangladesh Ship Breakers and Recyclers Association (BSBRA) Mohammad Mohsin Chowdhury, along with leaders of the Ship Recycling (Ship Breaking) Industry Owners Association, was present during the visit.