Scientific Fish Farming Boosts Food Security: Adviser

Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhtar on Sunday said scientific sea bass (coral) fish farming is opening new avenues for strengthening Bangladesh’s food security and ensuring a sustainable fish supply.

She made the remarks after visiting a modern greenhouse-based mariculture hatchery in Kalatoli, Cox’s Bazar.

“I am very pleased to see that the entire process—from brood fish management to egg production—is being carried out in a highly scientific manner. The role of this facility as a hatchery is extremely important,” she said.

The adviser noted that one of the most promising aspects of the initiative is its potential for expansion beyond coastal areas such as Cox’s Bazar. Similar projects, she said, could also be implemented in regions like North Bengal, increasing fish production across the country and further strengthening the national food system.

Farida Akhtar said the government would provide policy and institutional support to expand mariculture, but emphasised that private sector participation would be the key driver of its growth.

“The greater the involvement of private entrepreneurs, the stronger the development of technology, employment generation and scientific fish production,” she said.

She added that modern and sustainable fish farming initiatives would play a vital role in advancing Bangladesh’s blue economy in the coming years, contributing to long-term economic growth and food security.

Senior officials from the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, the Department of Fisheries and other relevant agencies were present during the visit.