Shrimp exports from the Khulna District in Bangladesh are facing a significant setback, with a notable decline in the first half of the current fiscal year. Comparing the export statistics from the first six months of the current financial year with the corresponding period in the previous fiscal year reveals a concerning drop of more than 25 percent. In the current fiscal year, only 9071 metric tons of shrimp were exported, whereas the same period in the previous year saw a more robust figure of 12071 metric tons.

A Disturbing Five-Year Trend

The challenges in shrimp exports from Khulna extend beyond the current financial year. Data over the last five years consistently show a diminishing trend in the export of both lobster and shrimp from the region.

Multiple Factors at Play

Stakeholders are attributing this decline to a combination of factors. Among them, the economic recession worldwide, reduction in shrimp production, and stringent quality standards are believed to be contributing to the slump in the European market.

Stakeholders Call for Government Intervention

In light of the ongoing challenges, stakeholders in the shrimp industry are urging government departments to take prompt and effective steps to address the issue. The need for strategic interventions to revive and stimulate the shrimp export market is pressing, considering the sustained decrease in revenues.

Government Initiatives for Market Diversification

Monirul Islam, Deputy Director of Fisheries Inspection and Quality Control Department in Khulna, shared insights into the efforts being made to explore new markets. He stated, ‘We are actively working with the Ministry of Commerce to identify and tap into new markets for our shrimp. The goal is to reach places where our shrimp have not been traditionally exported.’ Additionally, plans for the International Sea Food Expo in Bangladesh, scheduled for February, are expected to provide a platform for promoting shrimp exports.