The New Nation - Internet Edition

FROZEN food, mainly shrimp, comprise an important export item of the country. With increased investments by the entrepreneurs, a number of hatcheries have been set up in the southern zones. The production of shrimps has increased over the years. The earnings from export has showed an upturn and investors in this sub-sector are earning returns. The realities in the field of export of frozen food have of late turned difficult, due to sharp competition from exporters of the same product in China, India, Indonesia and Thailand. These competitors have also been producing new species of shrimps, including Vhanamei, which is high-yielding and more delicious. Then again the November 15 cyclone has caused havoc to the shrimp farms most of which have suffered loss of shrimp stock.

Those involved in production and export of shrimps are reportedly reviewing the situation in the country. They have noted the upturn in the price of inputs including shrimp feed and oil that are needed for operating the shrimp farms. Beyond that, the processing of shrimps in the farms and packaging those for shipment to the export markets have turned costlier. The competitors from other countries, have updated their systems of production, processing and shipment for ensuring speedy export.

Those keeping vigilance on the shrimp sub-sector and its increasing contribution to export earnings look for effective support and cooperation from producers and exporters of shrimp. They insist upon the elimination of alleged unfair practices which create adverse reactions in export markets. The tendency among a section of exporters to use antibiotics while processing shrimp have created such reaction in the European Union which is an important market for Bangladeshi frozen foods.

The shrimp farms that have been affected by cyclone Sidr should be rehabilitated with support from banks and financial institutions so that they can not only resume normal production but also introduce improved species of shrimp that are in high demand in international markets to help recovery of the sector. Apart from introducing more productive methods of farming and also improved species of shrimps, shrimp producers and exporters should improve efficiency of shrimp processing and shipment to remain competitive in the market.