Bangladesh's ship breaking a highly promising sector: German envoy

German Ambassador in Dhaka Dr Rudiger Lotz has said Bangladesh's ship breaking industry is a highly promising sector that has made significant progress in recent years despite many challenges.

He made the remarks during a visit to PHP Shipbreaking and Recycling Industries in Sitakunda, Chattogram, today (13 May). 

This shipyard is the first in Bangladesh to comply with the Hong Kong Convention's green standards.

The Ambassador, along with PHP Shipbreaking's Managing Director Zahirul Islam inspected the safety measures, environmental protection practices, and worker welfare initiatives at the shipyard.

During the visit, the envoy interacted with the workers and observed the production process at the shipyard.

The authorities briefed him on the yard's development plan and their efforts to achieve international certification.

German Ambassador Dr Rüdiger Lotz highlighted the shipbreaking industry's role in creating employment opportunities and contributing to job creation in the country. 

Experts also see this sector as a potential investment area, emphasising the importance of adhering to international standards for worker safety and welfare, he added.

To address these concerns, a government-to-government (G2G) project is underway in Bangladesh to enhance the living standard of shipbreaking workers, provide accident compensation, and ensure insurance benefits.

The German Ambassador praised the owner's efforts to promote environmental protection and worker safety at the green shipyard. He also hoped that all ship recycling yards would strive to become green in accordance with the Hong Kong Convention.

Managing Director of PHP Ship Breaking and Recycling Industries informed the envoy that the shipyard is successfully recycling ships from renowned companies like MOL and NYK.

German Embassy Cultural Affairs Officer Syeda Zarin Rafa, Honorary Consul Mirza Sakir Ispahani, and senior officials from PHP were present.