Dhaka:Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir emphasized the importance of eco-friendly production, workers' rights, and digital traceability to enhance Bangladesh's position in international shrimp markets. Speaking at a high-level dialogue on the shrimp sector, he outlined strategies to improve the competitiveness of Bangladesh's shrimp exports.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister highlighted that despite Bangladesh having more land dedicated to shrimp cultivation than India, it still falls behind in export earnings. He stressed the need for improvements in productivity, product quality, and responsible business practices from production to export.
The dialogue was held at the Sheraton Dhaka Hotel and was organized by the International Labour Organization, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and Total Food Processing (Pvt.) Ltd., a member of the Bangladesh Frozen Foods Exporters Association. Muktadir noted that the shrimp sector holds significant potential for diversifying Bangladesh's exports, with last year's exports of frozen fish and shrimp increasing by 19 percent to around US$300 million.
He pointed out India's shrimp exports exceeding US$5 billion, indicating the opportunities for Bangladesh to increase its productivity and quality. The minister urged for transparency in production to meet the demands of global buyers, who now consider product quality, producer identity, working conditions, and environmental sustainability.
Muktadir also mentioned the establishment of a Responsible Business Conduct Cell by the Ministry of Commerce and ongoing efforts to formulate a national policy on responsible business conduct, labor rights, and a traceability strategy. He identified the European Union as Bangladesh's largest shrimp market and expressed the government's commitment to reforms, including free trade agreements, to enhance trade relations.
The dialogue concluded with remarks emphasizing the importance of coordinated efforts to position Bangladeshi shrimp as a responsible and sustainable premium brand in international markets.