Special Correspondent:
Bangladesh has marked a historic milestone in its salt production, achieving the highest output in 63 years, according to recent reports. The National Salt Policy, 2022, mandates the Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC) to oversee the salt industry under the Ministry of Industry’s guidance.
Currently, 12 salt centers under BSCIC’s jurisdiction in Cox’s Bazar provide essential support to salt farmers, offering training, credit facilities, and technology extension services across Cox’s Bazar district and Banshkhali in Chittagong.
On Monday, BSCIC authorities informed that in the fiscal year 2022-23, the nation achieved a record salt production of 22 lakh 32 thousand 890 metric tons (MT). Surpassing this milestone, the ongoing salt season has witnessed unprecedented production, reaching 22 lakh 34 thousand 658 MT by April 28, 2024, with production continuing. The total land under salt cultivation this season spans 68 thousand 357 acres, showcasing an increase of 1 thousand 933 acres compared to the previous year.
Moreover, the number of salt farmers has risen to 40 thousand 695, up by 1,228 from the previous year. Despite increased production, the average price of crude salt at the field level stands at Tk 312 per maund, demonstrating a decrease from Tk 420 observed last year.
BSCIC has been diligently implementing its action plan, focusing on modernizing salt cultivation techniques, expanding cultivation areas, providing financial assistance to farmers, and ensuring quality control measures. The salt season is expected to continue until mid-May, contingent upon favorable weather conditions.
To further develop the salt industry, plans are underway to establish the ‘Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Salt Research Institute’ at the memorial site of the esteemed leader. This institute aims to pioneer modern and eco-friendly salt cultivation methods, expand salt production in coastal districts, conduct research to enhance productivity, and facilitate both domestic consumption and exports.
The record-breaking salt production not only signifies Bangladesh’s strides in self-sufficiency but also highlights the nation’s potential to emerge as a significant player in the global salt market, contributing to economic growth and prosperity.
