Dhaka: Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid on Monday emphasized that the global demand is now more focused on safe and quality food rather than merely addressing food shortages. He highlighted the importance of ensuring safe and quality fish production in Bangladesh.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the minister was speaking as the chief guest at a seminar titled “Fisheries Resources in Building a Self-Reliant Bangladesh: Present Context and Future Tasks,” organized by the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute (BFRI) at the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council. He stressed that quality control and adherence to prescribed standards are crucial at every stage of fish production to enhance exports.
“We must chart our course of action considering the current challenges facing the fisheries sector, future opportunities, consumer demand, and the international market’s requirement for quality fish,” the minister stated. “Identifying and resolving these issues on a priority basis will enable rapid progress.”
The minister also advocated for the establishment of adequate sanctuaries to promote natural fish breeding and production. He mentioned that the government has initiated several projects to conserve fish and address the excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers in agriculture, which, along with environmental pressures, hinder natural fish production and breeding. He called for a move towards eco-friendly and advanced production techniques to tackle these challenges.
Aminur urged the adoption of modern technology to increase fish production in limited spaces. He pointed out the international market potential for Bangladesh’s fisheries products, especially among expatriate Bangladeshis, and noted that meeting the preferences and demands of international consumers is essential for earning foreign currency.
Discussing the export prospects of shrimp, crab, eel, and other aquatic species, he emphasized the need to develop fry and breeding systems alongside production, suggesting that modern technology could significantly amplify production and exports in these areas.
Minister Rashid underscored the importance of coordinating quality fish production, food safety, environmental protection, modern technology, research, and international market demand. He stated that advice from scientists, researchers, and professionals would aid the government in achieving these goals.
State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock, Sultan Salauddin Tuku, who was present as a special guest, stressed the necessity of creating a conducive environment for fish growth and breeding. He highlighted issues such as river and canal encroachment, navigability crises, and water pollution from industrial waste, which disrupt fish habitats.
Tuku recalled President Ziaur Rahman’s initiatives to restore river navigability and re-excavate canals and noted that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has revived these efforts. He mentioned ongoing excavation work and plans to re-excavate around 20,000 kilometers of canals and rivers to foster a favorable environment for fish breeding and movement.
Expressing concerns about the unregulated use of antibiotics in fish farming, the state minister stated that their unnecessary use leads to economic losses for farmers and poses food safety risks. Tuku announced plans to organize district-level seminars and workshops to raise awareness among farmers.
Dr. Moshiur Rahman, a senior scientific officer at BFRI, presented the keynote paper during the seminar.