Hygienic meat production can unlock exports

Bangladesh has the potential to become an exporter of premium-quality meat within the next five years if it can ensure hygienic production and proper testing, Agriculture Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid said yesterday.

Meat produced in Bangladesh is naturally high in quality and taste, he said, but international buyers prioritise food safety above all else. If Bangladesh can guarantee hygienic production that meets required safety standards, global markets will pay premium prices.

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The minister was speaking at an event marking the 50th anniversary of the FAO’s Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) at the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council.

He said producing safe food is one of Bangladesh’s biggest challenges and should be a national priority.

The minister emphasised the need for stronger regulation of pesticide imports and stricter quality control at ports of entry, calling it a key requirement for strengthening the competitiveness of Bangladesh’s agricultural exports.

He argued that food safety should begin with rigorous monitoring of agricultural inputs rather than solely educating millions of farmers.

Improving agricultural production through scientific methods, technical training and quality assurance will strengthen the economy and expand export opportunities, he said.

With continued FAO and TCP support and close cooperation between scientists and the government, Bangladesh can further improve food safety, boost productivity and strengthen its position in international markets, he said.

“Agricultural transformation is built on strong national leadership and trusted international partnerships,” the minister said. “The TCP has played an important role in supporting our journey toward a more resilient, productive, and sustainable food system.”

Global demand today, he said, is driven more by safe, high-quality food than by sheer volume, and Bangladesh should focus on meeting international standards by making the best use of its fertile soil, favourable climate, sunlight and rainfall.

“The TCP embodies FAO’s commitment to providing timely, demand-driven technical support that responds directly to the priorities of Member Countries,” said Jiaoqun Shi, FAO representative in Bangladesh.