Area-wise, the position of Bangladesh in the world is 92nd (147,570 km²) - Russia stands 1st (17,098,246 km²) and the Vatican City 196th (0.44 km²). Population of Bangladesh in 2018 is 167 millions, the 8th highest. With a population density of 1127/km², the country has not much scope to expand its agriculture, aquaculture and others, rather the productive area has been decreasing every year due to ever-increasing population pressure. Yet according to FAO (2018) http://www.fao.org/3/i9540en/I9540EN.pdf -
as of now, Bangladesh stands 3rd in Inland Fisheries (1.05 and 1.16 million tons in 2016 & 2017, respectively) & 5th in Aquaculture (2.2 & 2.33 million tons in 2016 & 2017, respectively) globally. This is indeed, a great achievement for a small country like Bangladesh.
What are the reasons behind this success of the country? Are these developments sustainable? What could be the position of the country in next 10-20 years regarding its fisheries and aquaculture? Looking forward to receive your candid opinion.
Dear Mustafa, the following may be a few reasons for the success of the country in fisheries and aquaculture.
1. Inland pond culture represent the most important part of aquaculture in Bangladesh contributing to around 86% of total production.
2. Fish is a popular component to rice (a staple food of Bangladesh) in the national diet, giving rise to the adage Maache-Bhate Bangali.
3. Bangladesh is predominantly an agrarian economy and is naturally endowed with a huge sweet water resources and the worlds longest continuous sea beach. It is considered as one of the most suitable regions for aquaculture and fisheries in the world.
4. Fish and fish products in Bangladesh supply 60% of animal protein and around 3% of total export economy
Due to climate change it may not be sustainable in future.
Yes, we have many success stories given that we are very small populous country. For example, globally we are in top position in vegetables production along with fish production. Overall food production is also tremendous. We are now self sufficient in food production. So the question is what are the drivers of these success? I think hard working attitude of the people and scientist coupled with enabling policy of the government are the most prominent factors.
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