Dhaka: Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid has announced that Bangladesh is set to begin the export of certified organic grass-fed meat within the next three years. The announcement was made during a seminar titled ‘Australia-Bangladesh Research Showcase’ held at Hotel Inter-Continental.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the initiative will focus on exporting 100 percent natural grass-fed or non-GMO meat, distinguishing it from other livestock products that often involve animals fed with genetically modified soya or corn. The seminar, funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Australian government, was co-organized by Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute (BLRI) and Charles Sturt University (CSU). It centered on the theme of ‘Climate-resilient food systems-practical solutions and partnerships’.
Minister Rashid highlighted the increasing importance of safe and nutritional food, noting that genetically modified foods have not fully realized their potential benefits. He emphasized the global demand for safe and organic food that promotes overall health benefits.
A significant development discussed at the seminar was the invention of a new variety of Napier grass, which is commonly used for dairy and meat production in tropical and subtropical regions. This variety, containing 18 percent protein, marks a significant advancement in livestock feed innovation. The high-protein and drought-tolerant grass is expected to reduce meat production costs, ultimately making meat more affordable for consumers.
State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku also addressed the seminar, emphasizing the need for research and technology-driven initiatives to ensure the availability of quality grass and animal feed at lower costs. This approach aims to lower the overall meat production cost, benefiting consumers.
The seminar saw participation from various dignitaries, including BLRI Director General Dr Shakila Faruque, fisheries and livestock secretary M Delwar Hossain, Australian Deputy High Commissioner to Bangladesh Clinton Pobke, and Director General of the Department of Livestock Services Shahzaman Khan. Dr M Zillur Rahman and Professor Cameron Clark from Charles Sturt University delivered the welcome address, while Dr Mohammad Khairul Bashar presented a keynote paper on environmentally sustainable low-cost beef production.