FoodTechBangladesh, a five-year program (September 2022–August 2027) between Dutch and Bangladeshi companies that aims to boost the aquaculture sector in Bangladesh, has hit significant milestones. The partnership has held two events for facilities, which are designed to train fish farmers on sustainable farming practices.
FoodTechBangladesh, a public-private partnership between Dutch and Bangladeshi companies, co-funded by the Dutch Embassy in Dhaka, has achieved significant milestones in advancing a sustainable and competitive aquaculture sector in Bangladesh. In December 2024, two successful events were held in Mymensingh and Khulna, marking concrete steps towards sector development and capacity building.
The program introduced advanced Dutch technologies, including innovative aquaculture methods and training modules, contributing to more sustainable and efficient aquaculture practices in Bangladesh.
GROUNDBREAKING EVENT AT FISHTECH
On December 9, the groundbreaking ceremony for construction of the Centre of Excellence at FishTech took place, attended by more than 70 stakeholders. Representatives from the Dutch Embassy, including Sara van Hoeve, First Secretary of Economic Affairs, and Haruni Osman, Senior Policy Officer, emphasized the importance of sector development and efficiency.
OPENING OF RAS FACILITY AT GEMINI SEA FOOD
On December 11, the new Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) facility was inaugurated. The event was attended by Dutch Ambassador Andre Carstens and Inge Klaassen, First Secretary of Water and Climate. In his speech, the Ambassador highlighted the importance of equality and sustainability. He also underscored the critical need to ensure food security through sustainable and innovative production methods, ensuring future generations have access to sufficient and healthy food.
The facility, designed by the Dutch company Viqon, showcases how advanced technology can enhance productivity and sustainability in aquaculture. Thanks to Dutch expertise, the facility offers lessons and training to educate fish farmers in sustainable production methods.
CONTRIBUTIONS TO SUSTAINABILITY AND SECTOR DEVELOPMENT
FoodTechBangladesh pointed out it is committed to strengthening the aquaculture value chain by introducing scalable Dutch technologies, investments, and expertise. The program focuses on:
• Improving technical performance of fish farmers and breeders.
• Connecting breeders with end markets to reduce post-harvest losses.
• Stimulating joint activities between Dutch and Bangladeshi companies.
Key project highlights have been explained as:
• 4 Centers of Excellence (CoE’s) in Khulna, Mymensingh, Cox’s Bazar, and Patuakhali.
• 144 demonstrations and workshops on sustainable aquaculture techniques.
• Physical and online training for more than 1,800 fish farmers.
• 24 research projects and trials to improve sustainable cultivation techniques.
PARTNERS IN FOODTECHBANGLADESH
FoodTechBangladesh is a public-private partnership led by Larive International and LightCastle Partners, co-funded by the Dutch Embassy in Bangladesh. The partners include:
• Gemini Sea Food: A leading processor and exporter of fish and seafood.
• Viqon: Specialized in designing and building aquaculture farms using sustainable recirculation technology.
• De Heus: A global supplier of high-quality animal feed with expertise in aquaculture nutrition.
• FishTech: Specialist in integrated aquaculture services, including innovative solutions, training, and support for fish and shrimp farmers.
• Larive International: A business development consultancy specializing in market entry and growth strategies in emerging markets in Asia, Africa, and Central and Eastern Europe.
• LightCastle Partners: A management consultancy providing data-driven services to inspire businesses in Bangladesh to advance the economy.