Dhaka, May 23 -- Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir on Saturday said the government has no plans to establish or operate any new state-owned mills or factories, reaffirming that the private sector will drive industrial growth while the government plays a facilitative role.

"The government will not do business. Business will be done by the private sector, and the government will provide support," Muktadir said at a seminar titled "Sustainable Transition to Employment: Preparedness and Pathways for Textile Students," held at the Jute Diversification Promotion Centre in Farmgate.

Industries will be expanded further to reduce unemployment: Minister Muktadir

The minister, who also oversees the textiles and jute portfolio, said the g...