It is encouraging to note that agriculture is gradually becoming a major export earning sector for Bangladesh. Experts envisage that exports of different agricultural products will cross 1 billion dollar mark in the ongoing fiscal year, if the current rising trend continues. According to Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), the country fetched USD 67cr by exporting different types of agricultural goods in fiscal year 2017-18, which rose to USD 90.89 crore in fiscal 2018-19. Indeed, such a boost 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.
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 worth 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 policy support and transfer of technology to help investors. 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.