Commerce minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir on Friday said that locally adapted innovations were essential to reducing post-harvest losses of agricultural products.
He also said that the government would undertake research initiatives to develop modern, cost-effective solutions for preserving litchis.
He was speaking as chief guest at the inauguration of the Litchi Festival and Agricultural Trade Fair 2026 at Ishwardi upazila of Pabna, said a ministry press release.
The minister said there was no alternative but to develop practical ‘home-grown solutions’ suited to Bangladesh’s realities to protect post-harvest products.
He also said that Bangladeshi farmers had repeatedly demonstrated their ability to overcome challenges and ensure the country’s food security.
‘The people of this region have a deep connection with agriculture. I have even seen a remarkable love for farming among young children, which is truly unique,’ he said.
The minister said that onions could not previously be stored for extended periods, but low-cost technologies such as blowers and exhaust fans now allowed farmers to preserve them for several months.
‘In the same way, we must develop low-cost, locally driven preservation systems for litchi, potatoes, and other agricultural products,’ he said.
Calling on the Ministry of Agriculture to investigate the causes of litchi spoilage and crop losses, Muktadir said that the problems could be linked to high temperatures, pest management issues or other factors.
‘We must identify effective solutions so that not a single litchi goes to waste,’ he said.
The minister also said that Bangladesh currently produced nearly 40 million tonnes of rice annually and had made significant progress towards self-sufficiency in onion production.
He added that if agricultural productivity could be increased by a further 10 per cent, many agricultural products could be exported to international markets.
Earlier, the commerce minister formally inaugurated the fair and visited various exhibition stalls showcasing local agricultural products, litchi varieties, farming technologies and innovative agricultural initiatives.
Minister of State for Social Welfare Farzana Sharmin Putul, reserved-seat lawmaker Arifa Sultana Ruma, political leaders and district administration officials also spoke at the event.
