He shared this information while speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration ceremony of the VHT Center established by the Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation (BADC) in Gabtali, Dhaka, on Monday (July 6).
The Agriculture Minister said that under the new system, exporters will be able to complete all necessary processes including washing, packaging, and quarantine of agricultural products at the same location and send them directly to the airport. This will reduce both the time and cost of exporting agricultural products.
He further informed that initiatives have been taken to set up temperature-controlled short-term storage facilities at the airport for preserving exported fruits. This will make it easier to maintain the quality of perishable fruits like mangoes.
Regarding the expansion of international markets, the minister said that China has already imported jackfruit from Bangladesh on a trial basis. Additionally, several countries including Japan, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States have shown interest in importing mangoes from Bangladesh. Ensuring international standard packaging and quarantine systems is crucial for entering these markets.
He informed that although about 2.6 million tons of mangoes are produced annually in the country, many farmers do not get fair prices due to limited domestic demand. Therefore, the government is emphasizing increasing exports for the benefit of farmers.
Regarding reducing export costs, the Agriculture Minister said that discussions have already been held with Biman Bangladesh Airlines. Additionally, initiatives will be taken to increase cargo facilities with other international airlines and to reserve advance cargo space.
The minister said that not only mangoes but also various agricultural products including lychees, jackfruits, plums, tomatoes, papayas, and sweet potatoes can be exported through the VHT Center while maintaining international standards.
He also highlighted the plan to construct thousands of mini cold storage facilities across the country for preserving agricultural products. He expressed hope that this would ensure fair prices for farmers as well as provide consumers with a stable supply of agricultural products at stable prices throughout the year.
Addressing exporters, the minister said that to gain trust in the international market, promises made to foreign buyers must be kept 100 percent. At the same time, he called upon the media to play a positive role in highlighting the potential of agricultural product exports.
Earlier, the Agriculture Minister formally inaugurated the VHT Center at the event. The meeting was presided over by Agriculture Secretary Dr. Rafiqul E Mohammad.
