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The world-wide demand for unique handmade
paper and stationary products, on the
 part of both corporations and
individual consumers, is growing rapidly as a result of increased
concern for the protection of the environment, as well as of
indigenous technologies and the cultural heritage of developing
nations. According to
(Centre
For The Promotion Of Import From Developing Countries) , which does
extensive market research on
LDC's (Least Developing Countries) export potential, every
year the European Union imports stationary, handmade paper, and
related products in amounts equal to U.S. $8.5 to 10 billion.
Although neighboring countries such as Nepal and Thailand are among
the largest exporters of handmade paper, they are still unable to
meet the global demand. As a result, their outsourcing for such
products is increasing steadily.
Bangladesh is well suited to help meet
this burgeoning demand. Jute and other natural fibers, the primary
raw materials for handmade paper, are plentiful, as are the workers
needed by this labor intensive sector.
While handmade paper was always a line
item of the handicrafts sector JOBS has worked with since the
beginning of its interventions in Bangladesh, the rapidly growing
export potential has resulted in its being given increased attention
as an independent sector. The Project is working to address the lack
of skilled manpower, innovative designs, and effective product
development and marketing, especially to international markets, that
are among the sector’s most urgent problems. JOBS is focusing its
efforts on experienced enterprises with good potential and has
organized a number of skill development training sessions, and found
experts to provide the design development assistance and specialized
training needed to meet the requirements of international markets.
The Project is also assisting in accessing new markets through
participating in international trade fairs.
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