Deshbandhu Group, a prominent conglomerate, is investing Tk300 crore in establishing a 100% export-oriented jumbo bag manufacturing plant, showcasing its commitment to the growing demand in the industry. Jumbo bags, also known as flexible intermediate bulk containers, play a crucial role in storing and transporting dry, flowable products like sand, fertilizers, and chemicals. The company emphasizes that these bags will be manufactured using fully automated European-standard machinery in their upcoming facility in Narsingdi’s Palash upazila.
The construction progress, observed during a January visit, revealed the completion of a two-storey steel structure, with further work underway. Golam Mustafa, Chairman of Deshbandhu Group, affirmed the substantial investment, mentioning the import of machinery from both Germany and China. The project, under the name Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container Limited, is expected to employ around 2,000 people and produce 1,000 tonnes of products per month, with exports reaching 100 containers of jumbo bags monthly. Production is scheduled to commence in June 2024.
The factory, initially spanning 2 acres of land, is planned for future expansion onto an additional 2 acres. The strategic location aims to capitalize on the increasing demand for jumbo bags across various industries, such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and minerals. The versatility, strength, and durability of jumbo bags make them a cost-effective and ideal packaging solution for transporting bulk products.
Deshbandhu Group highlights the adaptability of jumbo bags, which can be produced from tubular or flat polypropylene woven fabrics, coated or uncoated, with varying weights to meet specific load requirements. Each bag can carry load capacities ranging from 500kg to 2,000kg, depending on design and size, with safety load ratios of 5:1 or 6:1.
In a broader context, the global jumbo bag market is projected to reach $8.2 billion by 2033, according to Future Market Insights. The increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions is anticipated to drive the growth of polypropylene (PP) jumbo bags, which are environmentally friendly and can be reused multiple times before recycling.
Sakhawat Hossain, general manager of Deshbandhu Polymer, notes the company’s evolution since the establishment of Deshbandhu Sugar Mills, emphasizing the increased production at Deshbandhu Polymer Limited, the group’s listed company in the capital market. The factory’s output has grown to 6 crore pieces a year, including cement bag manufacturing.
Deshbandhu Packaging Ltd, a subsidiary, already exports up to 700 tonnes of jumbo bags annually. Buoyed by this success, the group is embarking on the establishment of the 100% export-oriented plant, Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container Limited, marking its third project in this sector.
Deshbandhu Group’s strategic investment in the jumbo bag manufacturing plant underscores its forward-looking approach to meet the growing global demand for versatile and sustainable packaging solutions. With automated European-standard machinery and a focus on export-oriented production, the group aims to contribute significantly to the industry while creating employment opportunities in the region. The venture aligns with the broader industry trend towards eco-friendly packaging, reflecting Deshbandhu Group’s commitment to sustainable practices and market leadership.