Bangladesh live mud crab and Eel fish exporters are urging the establishment of a special economic zone near Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) to facilitate the export while ensuring their standard and quality. The Bangladesh Live and Chilled Food Exporters Association (BLCFEA) has formally requested the commerce ministry to address this matter.
Khair Uddin Ahmed, President of BLCFEA, highlighted that the export of live mud crab and eel fish has been a non-traditional but lucrative venture for three decades. However, he stressed that the General Administration of Customs China (GACC) might mandates the establishment of a standard packing center in a commercial area for exporting such species to its market. Currently, all packing centers are situated in residential areas, posing a risk of potential disruptions in exports.
Expressing concerns, Ahmed emphasized the need for urgent allocation of an Economic Processing Zone (EPZ) near the national airport. This move aims to bolster foreign currency reserves, meet buyer demands, and ensure the export of high-quality products while adhering to international standards.
A senior official from the commerce ministry confirmed receiving the BLCFEA’s request for an economic zone catering to local exporters of live eel and crab. The sector, a significant contributor to foreign currency earnings, has faced challenges due to the COVID-19 fallout. Export constraints and compliance hurdles have affected supply to China, a crucial market for crab and eel fish.
To mitigate these challenges, the BLCFEA is advocating for the establishment of an EPZ, positioning it strategically for efficient exports. Currently, the sector benefits from a 10% cash incentive on crab and eel fish exports. Despite export setbacks, particularly to China, the sector remains vital, with a substantial portion of crab and eel fish exports being directed to the Chinese market. In the fiscal year 2022-23, Bangladesh exports totaled 7,452 tonnes live mud crab, and 2,771.54 tonnes of eel fish, primarily to China.
As the industry seeks solutions to navigate challenges and enhance its global competitiveness, the establishment of a dedicated economic zone near the airport could prove instrumental in sustaining and expanding Bangladesh’s live and chilled food export sector.
