Russia gifts 30,000 tonnes of fertiliser to Bangladesh

Russia has handed over 30,000 tonnes of muriate of potash (MOP) fertiliser to Bangladesh as a gift under the framework of the World Food Programme (WFP).

Uralchem, a leading fertiliser manufacturer in Russia, delivered the fertiliser at a ceremony held yesterday at the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council in Dhaka.

Agriculture Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said that ensuring a stable supply of food and fertiliser has become a major challenge in today’s global context.

He added that the adverse effects of climate change, international market volatility, and other global crises are strongly affecting the agricultural sector.

“Under such circumstances, international cooperation and partnerships are more important than ever,” the adviser said, calling yesterday’s initiative a clear example of constructive global collaboration.

He also said that the Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation now holds 10.35 lakh tonnes of non-urea fertilisers, the highest since its establishment in 1961, and that significant progress has been made in agriculture during the tenure of the interim government.

Dmitry Konyaev, chief executive officer of Uralchem JSC, said mineral fertilisers are essential for food security as they ensure reliable crop yields. 

“As a key global producer and supplier of mineral fertilisers, Uralchem recognises its responsibility to support food security in vulnerable regions,” he added.

Mia Sattar, president of the Russian Friendship Society with Bangladesh, said yesterday’s handover reflects the enduring friendship between Bangladesh and Russia.

He added that the contribution will strengthen farmers’ capacity, improve food security, and deepen trust and partnership between the two countries.

According to official data, compared with the previous three years, rice production rose by 6 percent in fiscal year 2024-25, potato production by 14 percent, onion production by 22 percent, vegetable production by 3.70 percent, and mustard production by 86 percent.

Alexander G Khozin, Russian ambassador to Bangladesh; David Thomas, acting deputy country director of WFP Bangladesh; and Dimitry Boldyrev, global head of sales at Uralchem, attended the event. Agriculture Secretary Mohammad Emdad Ullah Mian presided over the programme.