The Bangladesh fertilizer imports plan has received approval as the government moves to strengthen food security and meet rising agricultural demand. The decision includes the purchase of fertilizer and rice through international sourcing to support farmers and stabilise domestic markets.
The approval came during the 50th meeting of the Advisory Council Committee on Government Purchase, held at the Bangladesh Secretariat. Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed chaired the meeting.
Bangladesh Fertilizer Imports Approved by Cabinet Committee
The committee cleared proposals to import 80,000 metric tons of fertilizer to meet crop nutrient requirements. The Ministry of Industries placed the proposals to ensure uninterrupted supply during peak farming seasons.
The government will import fertilizer from SABIC Agri-nutrients Company, Saudi Arabia, in two equal lots. Each lot will contain 40,000 metric tons, priced at $413.46 per metric ton. Each shipment will cost around Tk 203.09 crore.
Officials said timely fertilizer availability will support farm productivity and prevent shortages during sowing periods.
Rice Procurement to Support Food Security
Alongside fertilizer imports, the government approved the procurement of 50,000 metric tons of non-basmati parboiled rice. The Ministry of Food will procure the rice through an international open tender.
The rice purchase will cost Tk 214.70 crore, with a unit price of $351.11 per metric ton. India-based M/S Bagadiya Brothers Private Ltd has been selected as the supplier.
Authorities said the rice import will help maintain adequate public food stocks and stabilise prices in the domestic market.
Fertilizer Imports and Storage Expansion Plan
To strengthen storage capacity, the committee approved the construction of fertilizer buffer warehouses in two regions. A 25,000-metric-ton warehouse in Naogaon will cost around Tk 54.70 crore. Another 20,000-metric-ton facility in Bogura will cost about Tk 59.28 crore.
These facilities will improve fertilizer handling, storage, and regional distribution. As a result, farmers will receive supplies on time.
Infrastructure Projects Also Approved
In addition, the committee approved several infrastructure projects to improve connectivity. These include a World Bank-supported LGED project worth Tk 363 crore, implemented with the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
Road and highway projects in Cumilla, Lakshmipur, Noakhali, and Patuakhali will also move forward. Officials said these projects will improve logistics and support regional economic growth.
