Hong kong: Bangladesh will soon send a trade delegation to Sri Lanka to assess the market potential for exporting potatoes and explore opportunities to export onions, Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir announced on Thursday. The decision was made during a bilateral meeting with Sri Lankan Minister of Trade, Commerce and Food Security Wasantha Samarasinghe, held on the sidelines of the 11th Belt and Road Summit 2026 in Hong Kong.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the meeting focused on Bangladesh's agricultural production capacity, potato prices in the Sri Lankan market, and regional supply chain challenges. Muktadir highlighted the country's surplus of potatoes and onions, necessitating the development of new export markets. He noted that potatoes are currently priced at Tk 25 to Tk 30 per kg in Bangladesh and have export potential in Sri Lanka due to their low production costs and competitive prices.
Samarasinghe showed interest in importing potatoes and onions from Bangladesh, emphasizing that stronger regional trade could positively impact people across the region. The trade delegation, which includes representatives from the Potato Association, will evaluate demand, prices, and commercial prospects for potatoes in Sri Lanka. They will also engage with local traders and relevant trade bodies, such as the Sri Lanka Food Processors Association.
Muktadir encouraged Bangladesh's private sector to establish a long-term presence in the Sri Lankan market, stating that sustained exports require a continuous supply of quality products at competitive prices. He also mentioned the potential of setting up warehouses and other infrastructure in Sri Lanka if needed.
This initiative aims to create a new export market for Bangladeshi agricultural products, helping farmers secure fair prices for potatoes and providing Sri Lankan consumers with relatively affordable supplies.