Bangladesh, Thai firms team up to boost sustainable coastal aquaculture

The Bangladesh Shrimp and Fish Foundation (BSFF) and Thailand-based Thai Union Feedmill Public Company Limited (TFM) recently signed a memorandum of understanding to promote the sustainable farming of high-value species in coastal areas.

The agreement prioritises the development of Asian seabass, black tiger shrimp, whiteleg shrimp, and mono-sex giant freshwater prawn — species considered critical for export diversification and higher farm incomes.

Syed Mahmudul Huq, chairman of BSFF, and Hathai Nantatong, director (representing the CEO) of TFM, signed the agreement, according to a press release.

The collaboration will focus on technology transfer, improved hatchery systems, genetically suitable strains, and the use of high-quality formulated feed to raise productivity while reducing environmental impact.

The initiative also aims to strengthen biosecurity measures and reduce dependence on wild seed and traditional feeding practices.

Bangladesh has a 710-kilometre coastline and more than 155,000 hectares dedicated to shrimp farming, but the sector faces growing challenges from salinity intrusion and climate change.

The press release noted that climate-resilient, feed-based farming systems could help transform affected coastal land into productive assets while improving rural livelihoods.

The MoU builds on cooperation that began in 2021 and a pilot project implemented in 2023–2024 in Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar.

The pilot recorded output of about 4.3 tonnes per acre, demonstrating the commercial viability of modern seabass farming compared with traditional methods.

Under the new agreement, research, demonstration farms, and phased hatchery development will be undertaken in collaboration with national institutions.

Efforts will also target value chain improvements and stronger domestic and international market linkages to ensure long-term sustainability and export growth.