Policy Brief on BIMSTEC Cooperation in Agriculture
Citation: Raihan, S., Surid, T.F., (2024). BIMSTEC Cooperation in Agriculture. SANEM Publications. Dhaka.
Agriculture in the BIMSTEC region plays a critical role in supporting the livelihoods of nearly 1.5 billion people across its member states—Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. This sector is highly diverse, encompassing a wide variety of crops, livestock, and fisheries. However, it faces significant challenges, including low productivity, outdated practices, and vulnerabilities to climate change. To address these issues, member countries are increasingly emphasizing modernization and the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. Reducing trade barriers within the region is essential to enhance food security and drive economic growth. Strengthened regional collaboration has the potential to transform the agricultural sector into a more sustainable, productive, and resilient system.
