Aquaculture centre of excellence inaugurated in cox’s bazar

Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhtar has emphasised that ensuring feed safety in aquaculture is crucial to producing safe, sustainable fish, which is not only essential for increased production but also vital for food security and the sector's long-term health.

She made these remarks as chief guest at the inauguration of the Aquaculture Centre of Excellence, a joint initiative of the Netherlands Embassy and Fishtech BD Ltd, held at Dera Resort in Ukhia on Sunday.

Calling for a greater focus on sustainability, livelihoods, and safety, the adviser said the sector must not only be measured by production volume but also by the number of people it engages. She urged the Department of Fisheries and other stakeholders to strengthen surveillance, while emphasising the need to create opportunities for youth in aquaculture to ensure sustainable employment.

She also highlighted the potential of the In-Pond Raceway System (IPRS), describing the modern fish farming method as highly productive and sustainable for Bangladesh, while suggesting that alternative systems should be explored as well.

Ambassador of the Netherlands to Bangladesh, Joris van Bommel, the guest of honour, said the centre, under the FoodTech Bangladesh programme, is a strong example of partnership between Bangladesh and the Netherlands. He noted that technology, international collaboration, and active farmer participation would help make Bangladesh's aquaculture sector more sustainable, competitive, and future-ready.

Adding to the event's insights, Dr Abdur Rouf, Director General of the Department of Fisheries, stated that IPRS technology can increase fish production three to five times compared to traditional pond farming, while ensuring a more efficient use of land and water.

FishTech Chairman Khandaker Farhad Hossain delivered the welcome address, while Rogier Bector, project manager of Larive International, presented the keynote. Senior government officials, representatives from the Netherlands Embassy, academics, entrepreneurs, and fish farmers attended.

Later in the day, the adviser visited the Crab Hatchery and Nursery Complex in Kalatali, Cox's Bazar, and toured both the PCR laboratory and the under-construction facilities of the Sustainable Coastal and Marine Fisheries Project.