Bangladesh is looking to extract viscose from raw jute. This semi-synthetic fiber is seen as a substitute for cotton and capable of meeting the growing demand for cotton. Bangladesh has sent raw jute to Finland and Sweden for further feasibility studies for its possible use for viscose production. Viscose yarns are soft, strong, bright and of highly quality. Cellulose, a basic component in green jute plants, is the main element of viscose. About 65 per cent cellulose content in jute plants is the basic ingredient of viscose.

Bangladesh’s textile mills import cotton in huge amounts. A positive outcome would help Bangladesh save huge amounts of foreign exchange annually now spent for cotton imports. The country annually produces just 1.50 lakh bales of cotton against the domestic demand for 55 lakh bales.

Bangladesh is the largest cotton importer and consumer worldwide. More than 90 per cent yarns and fabrics are made from cotton. The country imports more than 60 per cent of its required cotton from India, the single largest source of the raw material for the country. The shorter lead time is very necessary for the garment business. Bangladesh is the only country that is still dependent on raw cotton for making yarns and fabrics.