Over the past five decades, Bangladesh has witnessed remarkable achievements in its agricultural sector. Thanks to the innovation and hard work of millions of small-scale farmers, rice production has quadrupled, leading to self-sufficiency in major crop and vegetable production. The country now ranks among the top ten global producers in key agricultural sectors, including potatoes, fruits (such as mango, jackfruit, guava, and banana), jute, fisheries, and livestock, as recognized by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

Bangladesh’s agricultural sector is poised for transformation due to urbanization, economic growth, and increasing demand for safe, nutritious food. Opportunities abound in crops, horticulture, livestock, aquaculture, and more, including production augmentation, processing improvements, stress-tolerant materials, and efficient agro-logistics. With data-driven solutions and machinery, Bangladesh offers an exciting investment prospect within its domestic market and for accessing regional and global markets. Recognized potential through eight RVO Market Scans underscores the diverse agricultural sectors available for collaboration.

The President of Wageningen University (WUR) and the Minister of Agriculture in Bangladesh discussed the potential for knowledge-based collaboration, resulting in three pilot projects launched in July 2023 to tap into specific agritech opportunities. The first-ever Dutch Agro Trade Mission in Bangladesh in June 2020 further emphasized the increasing interest in collaboration between the two countries.

This panel, comprising key stakeholders from Bangladesh and the Netherlands, is here to address queries and collaboration ideas from potential agripreneurs. We provide guidance and support for individuals looking to engage in Bangladesh’s dynamic agro-food landscape, offering insights and expertise in exploring the vast opportunities within the agricultural sector.