The Bangladesh government is expanding its aquaculture industry by permitting the import of over 5.11 million pieces of non-native Vannamei shrimp seeds.

Import Approval and Conditions

Under this approval, Green Bio Tech (BD) Corporation has been authorized to import the seeds from India. However, the permission comes with strict conditions, mandating that the imported shrimp seeds must be utilized solely for the production of new seeds.

The commerce ministry’s decision aligns with the government’s broader strategy to bolster the nation’s export portfolio. With the commercial production of Vannamei shrimp, Bangladesh aims to tap into lucrative international markets.

Pilot Projects and Industry Response

In a bid to assess the feasibility and potential of Vannamei shrimp farming, the Department of Fisheries (DoF) initiated pilot projects in 2020. Notably, Shushilan successfully cultivated Vannamei shrimp, recording a substantial harvest in July 2021. Encouraged by this success, the DoF has extended permissions to several firms to undertake trial cultivation, including M.U. Sea Foods Ltd, Grow tech Aquaculture Ltd, and Fahim Seafood Ltd.

Bangladesh’s frozen shrimp sector has encountered challenges in key markets like the United States and the European Union due to the declining price competitiveness of the native black tiger shrimp. Recognizing the need for diversification, frozen fish exporters have long advocated for Vannamei farming, citing its affordability and global demand.

Potential Impact on Export Earnings

Industry officials anticipate a significant boost in export volume and earnings within the next five years with the adoption of Vannamei farming. They project that the introduction of this shrimp variety will not only enhance export competitiveness but also cater to the rising domestic demand for shrimp.

Vannamei shrimp holds a prominent position in the global market, with over 60 countries, including major producers like China, India, Vietnam, and Thailand, meeting a substantial portion of the global demand. Despite its global popularity, Bangladesh’s current share in international frozen shrimp exports stands at a modest 2.0%.