DHAKA: Industries Minister Amir Hossain Amu categorically said that the government was ready to provide all-out support to the Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) to make the sector sustainable and a stronger one.

He came up with the observation while addressing the inaugural session of the 5-day-long 3rd National SME Fair at Bangabandhu International Conference Center in the capital on Friday morning.

Amir Hossain Amu said “Due to free market economy, this sector is getting strengthened and boosted, we should use it properly.”

“At present, 90 percent of our industry is comprised of the SME sector and this sector contributes 25 percent of total gross domestic production,” he added.

He again added, “Government will provide all-out assistance to advance the sector.”

Indicating SME Foundation, Amu said new entrepreneur would have to take initiatives considering the practical situations.

“In the SME sector, women’s participation is only 10 percent and we will reach at our desired goals as soon as this percentage increases,” he recommended.

Presided over by SME Foundation Director Dr Sayed M Ehsanul Karim, Industries secretary Mainuddin Abdullah and the foundation officials spoke at the function.

BDST: 1517 HRS APR 4, 2014