Dec 10: Following reports of Bangladesh importing sugar from Pakistan, the country is now exploring additional sources for potatoes and onions, including the possibility of procuring them from Pakistan.
This move is part of Bangladesh's efforts to secure uninterrupted supplies and reduce its dependence on India, its primary supplier, amidst strained relations between the two neighbors over alleged atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh has traditionally relied on India for its potato imports, while onions are primarily sourced from India and Myanmar, with smaller quantities imported from Pakistan, China, and Turkey. However, rising prices in the Indian market have reportedly pushed Bangladesh to seek alternative suppliers.
Until now, India has been the largest exporter of onions and potatoes to Bangladesh, with onion exports reaching approximately 7.24 lakh tonnes in the fiscal year 2023-24, up from 6.71 lakh tonnes the previous year, valued at around USD 145 million.
Traditionally, India has had strong trade ties with its neighbor, and Bangladesh serves as a key market for India's textile and agricultural exports. India's exports to Bangladesh rose from USD 3.2 billion in 2010-11 to a peak of USD 16.2 billion in 2021-22. However, trade between the two countries has declined following the interim government's rise to power in Bangladesh.
The Bangladesh Trade and Tariff Commission (BTTC) has identified several potential alternative sources for potato and onion imports and has informed the country's Ministry of Commerce. According to a report by Prothom Alo, discussions have also been held with importers regarding these alternatives.
The plan is to replace Indian potatoes with imports from Germany, Egypt, China, and Spain. Onions could be sourced from China, Pakistan, and Turkey. Salim Uddin, Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, stated to Prothom Alo, "BTTC has identified alternative sources to stabilize the prices and supply of potatoes and onions. We will urge importers to consider these options." —india.com
