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and household goods,” he said. “Clay dinner sets are particularly popular, with a 16–36 piece set priced between Tk 2,000 and Tk 4,500.”

“Our products are collected by brands such as Aarong and are sold across the country,” Barun added. “Many items are even exported abroad, like to the US, Canada, Saudi Arabia, and Dubai, by both foreign buyers and Bangladeshi expatriates,” Barun also said.

Another artisan, Kamal Pal, said government support -- especially easy access to bank loans and technical assistance -- could help the industry grow further.

Highlighting logistical challenges, Govinda Pal, a trader, said, “Since Patuakhali produces a large volume of watermelon during this season, it’s harder to find trucks for transporting our products. Freight costs have also increased.”

“Now the transport cost reaches up to Tk 20,000, which was previously Tk 10,000-15,000,” he added.

Contacted, Md Al Amin, sub-assistant general manager of Patuakhali BSCIC, said, “We provide training and low-interest loans to pottery artisans in Baufal. During the pandemic, we provided nearly Tk 50 lakh in bank loans.”

“We also help with design innovation and are working to get their products recognised with GI (Geographical Indication) status,” he added.