Bangladesh embraces sustainable aquaculture with Netherlands-backed Foodtech programme

The Government of the Netherlands has pledged to stand by Bangladesh in its efforts to build a sustainable fisheries sector, committing long-term support to strengthen productivity, protect the environment, and secure livelihoods.

The assurance came from Joris van Bommel, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Bangladesh, at the inauguration of the In-Pond Raceway System (IPRS), a modern aquaculture technology introduced under the FoodTech Bangladesh programme. 

The IPRS offers an environmentally friendly solution for fish farming by continuously circulating and purifying pond water instead of requiring full water changes. 

Waste is collected separately and can be repurposed as fertiliser, making the system both resource-efficient and sustainable. Experts believe wider adoption of this technology could significantly boost productivity and reduce environmental risks in aquaculture.

Implemented as part of a public-private partnership co-funded by the Netherlands, the FoodTechBangladesh programme aims to establish centres of excellence, build capacity among fish farmers, and introduce innovative methods to make the sector more inclusive and resilient.

The inauguration event was held in Cox's Bazar, where the ambassador highlighted his country's interest in deeper collaboration, particularly through investment in agriculture and aquaculture.

"The Netherlands looks forward to deepening its partnership with Bangladesh in sustainable aquaculture and agriculture," said van Bommel.

Farida Akhter, adviser to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, formally launched the IPRS technology as the chief guest. Abdur Rouf, director general of the Department of Fisheries, along with representatives from FishTech BD, Larive International, LightCastle Partners, and De Heus, was also present.

Farida Akhter emphasised the importance of ensuring that small-scale farmers benefit from such innovations. At the same time, Rouf noted that scaling up the use of IPRS will be crucial to meeting future demands.

Bangladesh's fisheries sector contributed 2.53% to the national GDP and 22.26% to agricultural GDP in 2022–23, supporting around 20 million livelihoods. As one of the world's leading fish producers, the country now sees sustainable technologies like IPRS as key to safeguarding the sector's future.