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Bangladesh’s ceramics industry has emerged as one of the nation’s most dynamic growth sectors, steadily expanding its footprint across domestic and international markets. Over the past two decades, the industry has transformed from a modest manufacturing base into a recognised exporter, supplying tableware, sanitaryware and tiles to countries around the world. Yet, behind this success lies a fundamental challenge: its heavy dependence on imported raw materials. Core inputs such as kaolin (china clay), ball clay, feldspar, quartz and zircon are predominantly sourced from India, China, Thailand, and New Zealand. This reliance exposes local manufacturers to global price volatility, currency fluctuations and logistical bottlenecks. The paradox, however, is that Bangladesh is not lacking in mineral resources. Geological surveys have identified over 100 million tonnes of ceramic clay, including premium-quality white kaolin, across regions such as Mymensingh and Sylhet. These reserves remain largely untapped due to the absence of a dedicated mining sector, limiting the industry’s ability to control costs and ensure long-term supply security.

Industry experts argue that the next phase of growth depends on unlocking these indigenous resources. Strategic investments in mineral exploration, modern extraction technologies and supply chain optimisation could significantly reduce reliance on imports. Furthermore, energy availability remains critical. A stable supply of natural gas, ideally supported by government incentives, will be vital to maintaining competitiveness against nations with abundant raw materials and lower production costs. In Jahir Ahmed’s view, proactive policies and targeted investments can help Bangladesh move from a resource-dependent to a resource-based economy, ensuring long-term competitiveness on the global market.

Large-format tiles have emerged as one of the fastest-growing segments, revolutionising architecture and interior design. With their expansive dimensions, these tiles minimise grout lines, creating seamless surfaces that enhance minimalist aesthetics and give interiors a more spacious, cohesive look. Their versatility sets them apart. Across Asia, large-format tiles now account for 6-8% of total ceramic tile production, with particularly strong adoption in premium markets such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

There, they are viewed as aspirational products, integral to high-end residential and commercial projects. Advances in production technology have further accelerated their rise, delivering efficiencies that allow manufacturers to scale output while improving quality. Yogender Singh Malik concludes that large-format tiles are no longer a niche trend; they are a statement of modern living where artistry meets practicality.
Kiln furniture – trays, supports and structures that hold ceramics during firing – plays a decisive role in energy efficiency. By adopting lighter and stronger kiln furniture, manufacturers can reduce energy use, increase kiln capacity, shorten firing cycles, and even improve finished product quality.In a market increasingly defined by sustainability and cost optimisation, Yogender Singh Malik believes that in today’s market, kiln furniture is transitioning from a background element to a driver of competitive advantage.

The ceramics industry is also under pressure to reduce its environmental footprint. One promising solution lies in the reuse of factory rejects. By recycling broken or wasted tiles back into the production process, manufacturers can cut raw material demand, reduce reliance on imports, lower energy usage, and minimise landfill waste. Across Asia, leading producers are investing in advanced recycling technologies, enabling them to combine waste materials with fresh inputs while maintaining high product quality. As Rohan Gunasekera notes, sustainability and efficiency are increasingly converging, proving that eco-friendly practices can enhance competitiveness rather than hinder it.

The drive for efficiency and innovation is not limited to Asia. From the heart of Mexico, NUTEC Bickley is transforming the way industries approach heat. Specialising in cutting-edge kilns for ceramics, furnaces for steel, aluminium and speciality alloys, as well as industrial ovens and dryers, the company is also at the forefront of combustion and control systems and high-efficiency preheaters. In an exclusive conversation with Asian Ceramics, Alberto Cantú, vice president of Ceramics at NUTEC Bickley, opens up about the company’s innovative products, ambitious plans, and the skilled team powering their global growth.