STAR BUSINESS REPORT

Agricultural products must be transformed into value-added agro-industrial products in order to transition from an agriculture-based economy to an industrial one, Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan said yesterday. “Achieving this transformation requires the effective integration of technology, innovation, and knowledge,” the minister said at the award ceremony of the Bangladesh Agro-Industry Media Award 2025, organised by Pran-RFL Group, at the MCCI Conference Hall of Police Plaza Concord in Dhaka.

“It will strengthen domestic markets, enhance export competitiveness, and contribute significantly to economic growth,” he also said, adding that investigative journalism can play a crucial role in promoting the development of the agriculture and agro-processing sectors.

“I believe that journalists’ investigative reports will not only inspire entrepreneurs to explore new opportunities but also help the government formulate more effective agriculture- and industry-friendly policies,” he said.

Referring to the government’s development agenda, the minister said, “Our government was elected through a credible electoral process. Before assuming office, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman declared, ‘I have a plan.’ Today, that vision has evolved into ‘We have a plan,’ with agriculture occupying a central place in our national development strategy.”

He also highlighted the government’s decision to waive interest on agricultural loans of up to Tk 10,000 shortly after taking office.

“At a time when the country faces substantial domestic and external debt obligations, along with nearly Tk 600,000 crore in non-performing loans, this initiative carries considerable strategic importance,” he said.

Calling on the media to focus greater attention on the sector, Swapan urged journalists to produce more in-depth reports on the opportunities and challenges facing the agriculture and agro-processing industries.

“Such reporting can contribute to more informed policymaking. As the information minister, I will make every effort to compile these reports and ensure they reach the relevant policymakers,” he added.

Speaking at the event, Pran Group Managing Director Ilias Mridha described agro-processing as one of Bangladesh’s most promising industries.