FAO supports Bangladesh in strengthening export and food safety regulations for fisheries and livestock sector

Dhaka – The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) held a validation workshop to finalize the updated version of the National Residue Control Plan (NRCP) Policy Guidelines 2011 (Revision 2025) and the Pesticide Residue Monitoring Plan (PRMP) Guidelines for dry fish in Bangladesh, at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel on Thursday, 20 February 2025.

The workshop aimed to align Bangladesh’s pesticides management frameworks with the changing requirements of the European Union (EU) and national regulations governing pesticide residues in the fisheries sector. The initiative is done under the FAO’s led Pesticide Risk Reduction in Bangladesh project that is funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

Dia Sanou, Deputy Representative, FAO Bangladesh, and Shahina Ferdousi, Joint Secretary, Fisheries Branch, Ministry of Fisheries & Livestock, participated the event which was chaired by Md. Zia Haider Chowdhury, Additional Director General, Department of Fisheries.

The validation meeting follows an extensive consultative process to identify gaps and areas for improvement in the existing NRCP Policy Guidelines and inform the updating the NRCP Policy Guidelines and developing the PRMP Guidelines to ensure their compatibility with both EU regulations and national standards. This process involved thorough desk reviews of relevant legislation and regulations, as well as conducting three focus group discussions (FGDs) in Khulna, Gazipur, and Dhaka with experts, stakeholders, and government officials.

Shahina Ferdousi, Joint Secretary, MOFL, acknowledged DoF and FAO’s significant collaboration in ensuring the country’s sustainable export and food safety regulations, she stated, “FAO has trained DoF officials on pesticide residue monitoring, reviewed regulations, and improved drying practices for dried fish producers. These efforts aim to reduce pesticide risks and enhance the quality of dried fish for domestic and export markets."

Dia Sanou, Deputy Representative, FAO Bangladesh, highlighted the country’s remarkable progress in the fish export sector, "Bangladesh has become the third-largest global producer of farmed fish, exporting to over 50 countries, including major markets like the EU, the US, and Japan. However, the country faces growing challenges with chemical contamination in aquaculture products, particularly from banned drugs and other chemicals, leading to significant economic impacts and a loss of customer confidence." He further added, “The updated NRCP Policy Guideline 2011 and PRMP Guideline for Dry Fish will help uphold safety standards in Bangladesh’s fisheries, protect public health, and strengthen exports.’’

To address the mentioned challenges, Bangladesh has implemented a series of steps to enhance monitoring and control mechanisms in the aquaculture sector. One key initiative is the introduction of 100% pre-export testing for
fishery products. These efforts aim to ensure that harmful substances do not enter the food chain and meet the requirements of international export markets.

The workshop will work as a key milestone in fostering collaboration among key actors in this sector. The insights gained will be useful for the development of national policies, ensuring the long-term sustainability and resilience of fisheries and aquaculture in Bangladesh.

National Residue Control Plan (NRCP)

A critical component of Bangladesh's strategy to address chemical contamination is the National Residue Control Plan (NRCP). The NRCP aims to verify that proper controls and practices are in place to prevent harmful substances from entering the food supply chain. This plan plays a crucial role in ensuring consumer safety and meeting the stringent regulations of export markets, such as the EU.

The NRCP is more than just a system for sampling and testing products at various stages of the supply chain. Its goal is to identify the sources of contaminants and residues, allowing for effective action to prevent these substances from entering the food supply chain and safeguarding the integrity of Bangladesh's aquaculture exports.

Pesticide Residue Monitoring Plan (PRMP)

The complementary PRMP guideline for dry fish products in Bangladesh is designed to monitor pesticide residues at various stages of drying, ensuring compliance with the Fish & Fishery Products (Inspection & Quality Control) Act 2020 and related regulations. The program aims to assess adherence to maximum residue levels, identify illegal pesticide use, and trace sources of contamination. Its goal is to ensure the safety of Bangladeshi dry fishery products for consumers.

FAO’s commitment to ensure Food Safety and Sustainability

Bangladesh remains committed to ensuring the safety and sustainability of Bangladesh’s fish farming industry. Through comprehensive monitoring systems, stringent regulatory measures, and ongoing collaboration with international partners, the country is working to address the challenges posed by chemical contamination while preserving its position as a leading global exporter of fishery products.

The validation meeting is part of the FAO’s ongoing efforts to ensure sustainable and safe fishery practices in Bangladesh, fostering better regulatory frameworks to safeguard public health and improve trade standards for seafood products. The recommendations focus on the "Four Betters"—Better Production, Better Nutrition, Better Environment, and a Better Life—ensuring sustainable export and food safety regulations in fisheries and aquaculture.