Industry leaders from Bangladesh and China stressed the need for technology transfer, knowledge sharing and greater investment in innovation, particularly as rising energy costs and global competition continue to challenge manufacturers.
They also highlighted Bangladesh's growing domestic ceramic market and urged local producers to focus on quality, design and branding to capture both local and international opportunities.
Their remarks came at a China-Bangladesh Ceramics Annual Conference 2026 at the Lakeshore Hotel in Dhaka on Saturday.
The Bangladesh Ceramic Manufacturers & Exporters Association (BCMEA), in collaboration with Foshan Uniceramics Expo, China, hosted the China-Bangladesh Ceramics Annual Conference 2026.
The industry leaders converged at the China-Bangladesh Ceramics Annual Conference to drive technological innovation and global competitiveness.
Centered on the theme "Empowering Technology, Winning Tomorrow Together," the conference brought together international delegates, technical experts, and industry leaders to explore the future of ceramic manufacturing through bilateral cooperation and technological advancement.
Opening the event, Irfan Uddin, General Secretary of BCMEA and Director of FARR Ceramics Ltd, emphasised that progress in the modern era is inextricably linked to partnership.
"Empowering technology, winning tomorrow together reflects our belief that meaningful collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation are the foundation of a stronger and more competitive ceramic industry," he stated, adding that "no industry can grow alone" in today's interconnected world.
The conference highlighted the significant growth potential of the Bangladeshi market. Eva Chan, Overseas Business Department Manager of Uniceramics China, shared insights from China's development, noting that Bangladesh's current per capita ceramic consumption of one square meter presents a massive opportunity compared to China's peak of 6.9 square meters.
"The gap is huge, which means the growth potential is equally huge. This is where the opportunity lies," Chan remarked, encouraging Bangladeshi manufacturers to shift from price-based competition to focusing on quality, design, and branding.
Representing the broader trade relationship, Mohammad Khorshed Alam, President of the Bangladesh China Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCCI), reinforced the commitment to connecting businesses from both nations. "I strongly believe that through cooperation with the China business partners, we can create new opportunities in both the local and international market," he noted, highlighting the importance of technology transfer and skill development.
President of BCMEA and Chairman of Monno Group of Industries Moynul Islam, who was present as the chief guest, reflected on the historical bond between the two nations and the need for continuous learning.
"Today's gathering is much more than a conference. It is a meeting of minds, a platform for innovations, and an opportunity to build a stronger partnership between two nations that share a common vision for industrial growth," he said.
He urged the industry to look towards Chinese efficiency and innovative solutions for energy challenges, such as electric kilns and hydrogen-enriched heating systems.
Special guest Md. Mamunur Rashid, Senior Vice President of BCMEA and Additional Managing Director of X Ceramics Group, pointed to the resilience of the national economy as a catalyst for investment.
Abdul Hakim (Sumon), Senior Vice President of BCMEA and Managing Director of Excellence Ceramics Group, delivered the vote of thanks, stressing the need for the industry to adapt to energy challenges.
"We must think about how to work closer with China... we have to go to alternative sources, like solar, because we cannot just depend on gas," said Mr Hakim, calling for an open-minded approach to sharing technical support within the sector.
