AGRICULTURE & AGRO-PROCESSING

Bangladesh Investmet Development Authority

OVERVIEW

Bangladesh’s agricultural sector, contributing 11.2% to GDP and employing 36.9% of the workforce, forms the backbone of the nation’s economy. With an annual agricultural output of 70 million metric tons, the country is on the cusp of a transformative leap. Government initiatives are driving diversification beyond traditional staples into high-value horticulture, protected farming, seed innovation, poultry, fisheries, and advanced food processing. Bangladesh’s fertile delta, favorable year-round climate, and strategic location create an unparalleled opportunity for agro-industrial growth, making it a compelling destination for investment.

To showcase these opportunities, the Netherlands Embassy and LightCastle Partners will co-facilitate the Agriculture and Agro-processing session at the Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025. This high-profile session will feature plenary discussions and policy dialogues with heads of government, policymakers, regulatory bodies, leading Bangladeshi businesses, and international investors. Discussions will focus on technological advancements, value chain integration, and export potential, positioning Bangladesh as a competitive hub for agro-industrial growth.

KEY INVESTMENT AREAS

Seeds

Strengthening public-private partnerships, certification systems, and import processes to enhance seed quality, with a focus on high-yield varieties and advanced distribution networks.

Protected Horticulture

Expanding mid-tech greenhouses, precision irrigation, and climate-controlled farming to support premium crops like cherry tomatoes, capsicum, and exotic fruits.

Poultry & Fisheries

Capitalizing on domestic demand and export potential through sustainable aquaculture, modernized poultry production, and investments in cold-chain logistics and automated processing.

Food Processing

Leveraging a $7.3 billion packaged food market and exports to 140+ countries, with investment opportunities in processed fruits, vegetables, seafood, and meat, alongside advanced packaging and manufacturing.