Bangladesh, Japan explore stronger agricultural ties

The views were shared at a bilateral meeting held at the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) in Dhaka.

At the meeting, the Bangladesh delegation was led by Agriculture, and Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid, while the Japanese delegation was led by SUZUKI Norikazu, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan.

During discussion, the Japanese side emphasised the importance of strengthening inter-ministerial coordination and enhancing private-sector engagement.

Japan also encouraged Bangladesh to pursue the implementation of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), including coordination on operational procedures related to the export of Japanese Wagyu beef. Opportunities for collaboration in halal food production were also highlighted.

In addition, the Japanese delegation underscored the importance of joint initiatives in sustainable agriculture through frameworks such as the Joint Credit Mechanism (JCM).

The Bangladesh side outlined several priority areas for enhanced cooperation, including advanced agricultural research – particularly in speed breeding technologies such as genomics and phenomics-as well as vegetable seed production.

Bangladesh also requested improved market access for its agricultural products, including mangoes and frozen foods.

Bangladesh explored opportunities for Japanese collaboration in agricultural mechanisation and the adoption of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies, including drones, big data, and artificial intelligence.

The Bangladesh side also invited Japanese investment in agro-processing industries, especially in the drying and dehydration of jackfruit and mango.

Cooperation in deep-sea fishing and food safety compliance were identified as additional areas of mutual interest.

In his remarks, Minister Aminur Rashid said agriculture remains the backbone of Bangladesh’s economy, and they highly value Japan’s cooperation in advancing agricultural modernisation, mechanisation, value chain development, and climate-resilient practices.

Japanese expertise, innovation, and investment have played an important role in enhancing productivity and promoting agro-industrial growth in Bangladesh, he said.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to further strengthen bilateral cooperation and promote sustainable, technology-driven agricultural development for the mutual benefit of both countries, reports UNB.