It is good news that Bangladesh’s earnings from export of agricultural products stood at USD 854.46 million during July-May of the fiscal year (FY) (2018-19) as reported by this daily on Wednesday. Reportedly, the earnings increased by 40.3 percent from USD 609 million in the same period of previous fiscal year. Indeed, such an increase in agro export is the consequence of the government’s relentless efforts to boost the country’s agro economy and bring efficiency in the firm sector by enhancing export of processed agro-food.
There is high demand for processed food products in different countries of the world. Even in China and Japan the demand is increasing rapidly. But it is discomforting to note that we do not have adequate infrastructure facilities to process our agro produce. Therefore, it is high time for the authorities concerned to focus on the food processing industry and build necessary infrastructure to get the most out of this sector.
Authorities concerned should extend
necessary cooperation to entrepreneurs
involved with food processing industry
It needs no emphasizing that the demand for agricultural products is increasing rapidly in the world market and it is high time for Bangladesh to tap this opportunity. Industry insiders are of the opinion that Bangladesh has the potential to export agricultural products of tk 150 crore to neighboring countries. Currently Bangladesh exports agricultural products to some 121 countries.
If quality production and preservation process can be ensured, the country would be able to export more. Some 12 percent of the total production of agricultural products and 20 percent of vegetables and foods are being damaged every year due to lack of scientific technology, inadequate cold storage and limitation of communication system.
If this can be addressed, export earnings will rise for sure. Considering this, the government should give emphasis on investor’s policy support and transfer of technology. Authorities concerned should extend necessary cooperation to entrepreneurs involved with food processing industry. In this regard, the government should act promptly to reduce trade barriers with different countries.
