HSBC promotes climate-smart soybean cultivation in coastal areas

HSBC has extended philanthropic support to Solidaridad Network Asia to promote climate-resilient soybean farming under the project "Improving Prosperity and Sustainability of Bangladesh Feed and Oil Industry through Soybean Farming."

The initiative aims to strengthen the livelihoods of coastal farmers and contribute to national food security amid growing salinity and shifting weather patterns.

Through the project, more than 40,000 farmers across 42,000 hectares are cultivating high-yielding, short-duration, and saline-tolerant soybean varieties. These crops enhance soil fertility through natural nitrogen fixation, ensuring higher yields and incomes while boosting long-term climate resilience.

Soybean is a vital crop for Bangladesh's feed and oil industries, supporting affordable protein production for poultry, fisheries, and livestock while reducing reliance on imports. With rising global demand for sustainable protein sources, Bangladesh's soybean sector is well-positioned to expand.

The initiative also promotes female entrepreneurship and SME participation. In partnership with women-led microenterprises in Noakhali, soy-based products, including tofu and nuggets made from locally grown beans, are now available in Dhaka supermarkets, establishing inclusive farm-to-market linkages that directly benefit rural producers.

"I have never seen such soybean seeds before," said Kamal Uddin, a farmer from Subarnachar upazila. "This year, I cultivated BU Soybean-4 with the project's help and made an excellent profit. I believe every farmer should switch to this new variety."

According to Solidaridad, farmers in Noakhali have achieved an ROI of over 160% and increased incomes by 36% through new seed technologies and climate-smart practices.

"Bangladesh's fertile land has powered agricultural growth, but the country still depends heavily on imported oilseeds," said Selim Reza Hasan, Country Manager, Solidaridad. "High-yielding, stress-tolerant soybean varieties can diversify agriculture, boost smallholder income, and enhance nutrition security."

Md Mahbub ur Rahman, Chief Executive Officer of HSBC Bangladesh, said:
"By partnering with Solidaridad, HSBC is empowering farmers and supporting local soy-based production. From building coastal resilience to putting soybean products on supermarket shelves, this initiative demonstrates how sustainable agriculture can drive prosperity and a healthier food future."

The project continues to enhance livelihoods and promote sustainable growth by equipping farmers with climate-smart practices, strengthening value chains, and linking smallholders to commercial markets.