The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Bangladesh in strengthening its fruit export industry and improving post-harvest management systems.
During a bilateral meeting in Rome between FAO Director-General Dr Qu Dongyu and Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, both parties discussed technical cooperation in fruit preservation, processing, and cold storage development. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the World Food Forum and the FAO's 80th anniversary events.
Dr Qu described Bangladesh as a "high-performing country" and reiterated the FAO's support through technical assistance, innovation, and South-South and Triangular Cooperation. "We will continue to support you," he said.
Chief Adviser Yunus requested FAO's assistance in scaling up fruit exports through improved preservation and processing systems, and in strengthening post-harvest management infrastructure, including affordable and portable cold storage solutions for smallholder farmers. Highlighting Bangladesh's potential in fruit exports, Yunus noted that China has expressed interest in importing large volumes of mangoes, jackfruit, and guavas. He said developing mobile cold storage systems would help reduce post-harvest losses and improve fruit quality for export.
Dr Qu referenced China's experience in the 1980s, when expanding fruit exports to Japan helped boost its agricultural economy. He emphasised that developing high-value cash crop fruits could similarly support Bangladesh's agricultural growth. The FAO chief also acknowledged the upcoming 20th anniversary of Professor Yunus's Nobel Peace Prize in 2026 and commended his contributions to rural and agricultural development.
The meeting was also attended by Food Adviser Ali Imam Majumder, Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter, SDG Coordinator Lamiya Morshed, and Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam.
Source: The Business Standard
