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although quality helmets have long been categorised as mandatory products under BSTI regulations, the country lacked its own testing facilities.

“With world-class testing equipment now in place, both domestically produced and imported helmets can be tested for quality and compliance,” said Rahman.

“This initiative will not only protect consumers but also help reduce fatalities in road accidents,” he said.

Addressing the event, SM Ferdous Alam, director general of the BSTI, said the global demand for halal products was no longer limited to Muslim-majority countries and was growing rapidly across global markets.

“Halal is not merely a reflection of the practice of religion anymore—it has become a global quality standard linked to food safety, health, and conscious consumer behaviour,” he said.

He said the two laboratories would significantly strengthen Bangladesh’s quality-certification infrastructure, enhancing its competitive position in regional and global trade.

“These initiatives will be milestones in facilitating entry into international halal markets and ensuring road safety,” he added.

To mark the inauguration, the BSTI organised an event showcasing halal products and featuring 10 companies that have received halal certifications from the institution.

The 10 are Remark HB Limited, Olympic Industries Limited, Pran Agro Limited, Akij Bakers Limited, New Zealand Dairy Products Bangladesh Limited, Nestlé Bangladesh PLC, Cocola Food Products Limited, Bangladesh Edible Oil Limited, Bengal Meat Processing Industries Limited, and Chhuya Frozen Foods Limited.