Exploring Traditional Handloom Value Chain and Its Sustainability Constraints in Bangladesh: A Qualitative Study on Tangail Handloom Industries

Abstract

Purpose: In this paper, we tried to explore the traditional handloom value chain and its constraints which are threatening the sustainability of this sector in Bangladesh. Methodology: The study followed phenomenological and grounded theory approaches of qualitative research. Data has been collected through in-direct observations, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. Thematic analysis technique has been adopted to analyze data. Findings: The traditional handloom value chain operates through the activities of raw materials suppliers, dyers, designers, weavers, local marketers, wholesalers, and retailers. Competition with power loom products, lack of financial assistance, long producing hours, high price, and changes in taste and normative patterns of the consumers are identified as the major threats to the sustainability of this sector. Limitations: This study couldn’t include all the handloom industry areas and personals of the country. To get more depth insight, it has focused on qualitative methods of investigation. But quantitative insight on the same problem could have provided a wider picture. Practical Implications: At present, approximately 316,315 peoples are directly earning their livelihoods from this sector. The findings and recommendations of this study will be helpful to understand and eradicate the current constraints of the value chain of this sector. Originality: Series of quantitative studies has taken place on handloom industries in South-Asian countries. But very little is known about the traditional handloom value chain and problems in the context of Bangladesh. This paper has addressed the gap by exploring the traditional handloom value chain and its constraints based on primary qualitative data.