Mon Dec 09 19:42:53 UTC 2024: ## Bangladesh Seeks to Diversify Potato and Onion Imports, Reducing Reliance on India
**DHAKA** – Strained relations between India and Bangladesh have prompted the latter to explore alternative sources for its potato and onion imports, reducing its dependence on its neighbour. Bangladesh currently sources almost all its potatoes from India, and a majority of its onions from India and Myanmar, with smaller quantities from Pakistan, China, and Turkey.
While India has traditionally been a major trading partner for Bangladesh, bilateral trade has reportedly declined following the interim government’s ascension to power. This decline follows a peak of $16.2 billion in 2021-22, up from $3.2 billion in 2010-11. Bangladesh’s reliance on India for key agricultural products is now a cause for concern.
The Bangladesh Trade and Tariff Commission (BTTC) has identified potential alternative sources for potatoes and onions, including Germany, Egypt, China, and Spain for potatoes, and China, Pakistan, and Turkey for onions. These findings have been communicated to the Ministry of Commerce, and discussions are underway with importers, according to Prothom Alo.
Commerce Secretary Salim Uddin stated that the BTTC aims to stabilize prices and supply by diversifying import sources. The government will encourage importers to consider these alternatives.
The move is attributed to rising potato and onion prices in the Indian market and restrictions imposed by Indian authorities on exports. The BTTC cited a significant price increase, alleging a 10.59 percent and 131 percent annual rise for onions and potatoes respectively. While India remains a significant trading partner, Bangladesh’s decision highlights a shift towards greater import diversification to ensure food security and reduce reliance on a single source.
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