Commercial potential of organic agriculture

Organic agriculture is a well-known concept. Many people think it is farming for the rich, while others see it as an improved form of traditional agriculture. Organic products are healthy, high-quality, and often better in taste. In Bangladesh, organic farming is an emerging and sustainable system. It is becoming popular, especially among urban people who prefer chemical-free food, and trust in organic products is increasing day by day.

The idea of organic farming is not new. It started with the aim of protecting soil health and the agricultural environment. In the early 20th century, the concept developed as part of sustainable agriculture. British scientist Sir Albert Howard is known as the father of organic agriculture. During 1905–1924, while working in Pusa, Bengal, he documented traditional farming systems and later wrote a famous book, An Agricultural Testament, which attracted global attention.

Organic agriculture in Bangladesh

Agricultural development in Bangladesh initially began with organic methods. Before the 1970s, the agricultural system relied entirely on natural fertilisers and inputs. Later, as a response to the environmental degradation caused by the Green Revolution, organic agriculture transformed into an organised movement in the late 1970s–1980s through initiatives by certain non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Currently, organic farming is steadily growing in Bangladesh. It is primarily an NGO-driven sector, aiming to ensure sustainable agriculture and health protection.

Before the 1970s (Pre-Green Revolution), agricultural practices were completely organic. Farmers used cow dung, crop residues, and compost for crop production. After the 1970s, with the introduction of High Yielding Varieties (HYV) under the Green Revolution, the use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides increased significantly. Consequently, organic farming gradually shifted to the periphery.

After 1978, some NGOs became involved in the organic agriculture movement. Their primary goal was to prevent soil degradation and increase food security, acting as pioneers of sustainable and chemical-free farming. Later, in 2006, the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI) started planned and research-based programmes on organic agriculture.

What is organic farming?

Many people think that using compost or organic pesticides is enough for organic farming. But this is not fully correct. Organic farming is a holistic approach. It requires organic sources for seeds, fertiliser, pest control, and water management. Farms must also be located away from conventional farms to avoid contamination from chemicals through soil, water, and air.

Use of chemical pesticides in the Bangladeshi agriculture sector

Modern agriculture in Bangladesh began in the 1970s under the Green Revolution. At that time, about 4,000 metric tonnes of pesticides were used. Today, pesticide use has risen to approximately 40,832 metric tonnes (DAE, Daily Star, 25.11.25), of which around 15,000 metric tonnes are active ingredients (the main toxic components). On average, 1.8 kg of pesticide is used per hectare of farmland.

About 80% of chemical pesticides in Bangladesh are used on rice fields. Of the total pesticides, 45.09% are fungicides, 38.85% are insecticides, and 15.15% are herbicides. Around 8,000 pesticides are registered in the country. Among them, 17 are considered extremely hazardous according to global standards.

Farmers apply pesticides multiple times on vegetables: 37% of farmers apply them once, 31% twice, and others use them even more frequently. Some farmers use pesticides 17–31 times on the same crop. This heavy use increases health risks, leading to serious illnesses such as cancer, infertility, and other complex diseases.

Because of these health risks, environmental concerns, and the demand for safe food, people are becoming increasingly interested in organically produced crops.

Integrated farming systems combining poultry, dairy, and fisheries can support organic production. Certification is also crucial for organic agriculture. Without proper certification and legal recognition, organic products cannot gain trust in local and international markets.

Market potential of organic farming

In 2025, the organic market in Bangladesh was about $143 million, and it is expected to reach $225 million by 2031. Organic cultivation covers approximately 20,000 hectares of land. Globally, the organic market is about $145 billion, covering 99 million hectares. Bangladesh already exports some organic products, such as tea, to countries like Germany, Japan, the USA, and the UK.

Challenge of organic agriculture

However, a major challenge is the lower yield of organically produced agroproducts. Organic agro-yields can be 5% to 34% lower than conventional farming or commercial farming systems.

Despite these drawbacks, organic farming is important for environmental protection and food safety. Integrated farming systems combining poultry, dairy, and fisheries can support organic production. Certification is also crucial for organic agriculture. Without proper certification and legal recognition, organic products cannot gain trust in local and international markets.

Food safety and future direction

Every year, around 30 million people in Bangladesh suffer from foodborne diseases. Safe food production is essential. Organic farming can play an important role in improving public health and protecting soil.

Modern agriculture should follow an integrated approach, combining organic and chemical inputs in a balanced way to maintain productivity and ensure quality.

To protect the environment, ensure safe food, and create employment, expanding sustainable agriculture and organic farming practices is essential. Together, we can build a healthier and better Bangladesh.

Mohammad Arifur Rahman is the Project Director of the Exportable Mango Production Project at  DAE.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.