Bangladesh seeks to expand agri-exports with Russian help
Dhaka seeks to expand food exports while Moscow offers mechanization, fertilizers, seeds, signaling Bangladesh push to boost agricultural productivity and trade diversification
DHAKA, Bangladesh (MNTV) — Bangladesh is seeking to expand agricultural exports and modernize its farming sector through deeper cooperation with Russia, as the country looks to strengthen food security, boost rural incomes, and diversify trade partners.
Bangladesh’s agriculture minister called on Russia to increase imports of Bangladeshi potatoes, mangoes, cucumbers, and processed food products, while Moscow expressed interest in supporting agricultural mechanization and supplying fertilizers and seeds, according to discussions held Wednesday.
The talks reflect Bangladesh’s broader push to expand export markets beyond traditional destinations and improve agricultural productivity in a sector that employs nearly 40% of the country’s workforce and remains central to rural economic stability.
Bangladesh relies heavily on imported fertilizers to sustain its agricultural output, with Russia already serving as a major supplier of non-urea fertilizers, particularly muriate of potash — a key nutrient used to improve crop yields.
Ensuring stable fertilizer supply has become increasingly important as global food markets face volatility driven by geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions.
Bangladesh has also been attempting to expand agricultural exports, particularly fresh produce and processed food, as part of efforts to diversify export earnings beyond the country’s dominant garment industry. Agricultural exports remain relatively small compared with Bangladesh’s total exports, but officials increasingly view the sector as a potential growth area.
Russia’s interest in agricultural mechanization could also support Bangladesh’s efforts to modernize farming practices. Mechanization — including tractors, harvesting equipment, and irrigation technologies — is seen as essential to improving productivity, reducing labor shortages, and adapting to climate-related challenges such as floods and irregular rainfall.
Bangladesh has been gradually expanding partnerships with multiple countries to modernize agriculture, improve food security, and strengthen resilience against climate change. The country remains highly vulnerable to extreme weather events, which frequently affect crop production and rural livelihoods.
Cooperation with Russia in fertilizers, seeds, and mechanization could help Bangladesh stabilize agricultural output while opening new export opportunities, as Dhaka seeks to strengthen its food systems and reduce reliance on limited export sectors.
The discussions also highlight Bangladesh’s broader strategy of deepening economic engagement with diverse global partners while strengthening domestic food production and rural economic development.
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
