Dhaka: Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter today emphasized that the government is steadfast in its decision against importing meat or eggs, citing the potential spread of infectious zoonotic diseases across the country.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Farida addressed the issue during a view exchange meeting with district livestock officers at the Department of Livestock Services auditorium. She highlighted the dangers associated with importing animal products, stating that the consumption of imported meat could lead to disease outbreaks.
Farida also mentioned that foreign diplomats and major business entities have proposed beef imports to reduce local market prices. However, she warned that such actions could devastate local farms. The Commerce Ministry occasionally considers importing meat and eggs, but the Fisheries and Livestock Ministry plans to send an official request to the Commerce Ministry, urging consultation before making such decisions.
The adviser proposed the establishment of a ‘Fisheries and Livestock Bank’, similar to the Agricultural Bank, to provide farmers with necessary loan facilities. She believes this initiative could decrease import dependency and enhance domestic production in the fisheries and livestock sectors.
Additionally, Farida disclosed that a new department under the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs is being formed to support families of those affected by the July-August mass uprising. She also advocated for increased vaccination efforts to prevent Lumpy Skin Disease in cattle and eradicate Peste des Petits Ruminants disease.
The meeting was chaired by Livestock Services Director General Dr. Md. Abu Sufian and attended by divisional directors and livestock officers from all 64 districts in the country.