The New Nation - Internet Edition

THE European Union (EU) has warned Bangladesh shrimp exporters of likely export restrictions to EU countries unless they ensure quality. This notice was served following a recent visit to Bangladesh of a EU delegation. In a letter to the government the team expressed concern over health hazards posed by antibiotics. They threatened to take steps against Bangladesh shrimp if chemicals and medicines above permissible levels were detected.

It is not for the first time that allegations of the use of excessive preservatives have been made. As a reaction to the reported presence of harmful antibiotics, EU sent back 300 containers of shrimp during the last few months. This not only brought economic loss but also loss of image of the country. This may even cause loss of the export market of frozen foods. Bangladesh exports 45-48 percent of its shrimp to EU countries. Loss of such a big market would seriously affect export trade. EU steps are not unlikely to induce others to follow suit.

Contribution of fish and fish product to GDP was about four percent in 2006-07. Export of frozen foods, mainly shrimp, earned the country US$534 million during the last fiscal year. This registered an increase of about four percent over US$495 million earned during the previous fiscal year. Earnings from this sector are supposed to increase in future. But alleged use of chemicals disliked by consumers and unhygienic handling and packaging, violation of workers' right are possible threats to the export of shrimp. The exporters should strictly maintain quality in all respects to the complete satisfaction of the importers.