Crab farming expansion can boost country’s exports

With the global demand for crabs on the rise, expanding crab farming in Bangladesh presents a significant opportunity for the country to boost its export income.

Developing this sector requires increased research and collaboration between government and non-government entities.

Experts made these remarks at a workshop titled “Possibilities of the Crab Industry in Bangladesh, Existing Problems, and Possible Actions”, held on Tuesday at the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) Bhaban in Agargaon, according to a press release.

The workshop was presided over by PKSF Managing Director Dr Nomita Halder. Dr Benoy Kumar Barman, interim country representative of the WorldFish Bangladesh was the guest of honour and PKSF Additional Managing Director Md Fazlul Kader delivered the opening remarks.

The event was organised by PKSF under its “Resilient Homestead and Livelihood Support to the Vulnerable Coastal People of Bangladesh (RHL)” project, and funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF).

PKSF Deputy Managing Director Dr Fazle Rabbi Sadeque Ahmed moderated the workshop.

Md Abu Nashir Khan, assistant general manager of PKSF, presented on ‘Introduction of PKSF and PKSF’s Interventions for Crab Subsector’.

Additionally, Dr Mojibar Rahman of UNDP Bangladesh presented on ‘Potentiality of Mud Crab Industry in Bangladesh, Existing Challenges and Possible Actions’ and Dr Muhammad Meezanur Rahman, aquaculture scientist of WorldFish Bangladesh, made a presentation on ‘Artemia Pond Culture/Progress and Prospects’.

Speakers at the workshop highlighted various steps taken by PKSF to develop crab farming, including the establishment of crab hatcheries, crablet production at the entrepreneurial level, establishment of crab nurseries, and the expansion of crab farming technologies.

Through specialised activities under the RHL project, PKSF aims to support the government’s efforts to increase crab export against the backdrop of a growing demand in the international markets.

During the open discussion, representatives from various government and non-governmental organisations, including PKSF’s partner organisations, shared their experiences and insights on crab farming.