29 May 2025 | Lakeshore Grand Hotel, Dhaka, Bangladesh

The Consolidation and Closing Workshop of the USDA USAID-supported project on “Integrated Approach to Enhancing SPS Capacity in Bangladesh” was held on 29 May 2025 at the Lakeshore Grand Hotel, Dhaka. Implemented by the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI), the initiative aimed to strengthen Bangladesh’s SPS compliance systems and boost safe agricultural trade.

This workshop marked the formal closure of the project, which is being concluded mid-implementation following a broader decision to halt ongoing projects. Despite this premature conclusion, the gathering served as a critical opportunity to reflect on achievements, acknowledge partnerships, and chart the way forward.

Opening Address

In his remarks, Dr. Ravi Khetarpal, Executive Director of APAARI, expressed appreciation for the opportunity:

“We are very grateful to USDA and USAID  for enabling this initiative. Despite delays caused by political developments in Bangladesh and recent shifts in U.S. policy, several important achievements were realized. This workshop is not just a conclusion, but a point of consolidation to build on what has been achieved.”

He further emphasized the need to sustain momentum through continued engagement and leveraging the project outputs within existing systems.

National Stakeholder Reflections

Mr. Md. Abdur Rahim, Director, PQW, DAE, noted:

“Through this project, our Quarantine Wing undertook critical activities such as training on pest-free area establishment, inspection techniques, and launching the SPS web portal. These initiatives are actively contributing to Bangladesh’s development and export potential.”

Dr. Saleh Ahmed, Country Representative, CABI, commented:

“While the project may be closing, its activities must continue. Bangladesh is transitioning from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture and technological adoption. But challenges remain—climate change, population pressure, and limited infrastructure. We need collective action and fresh investment to strengthen SPS systems.”

Dr. Abdur Rashid, General Manager (Research Coordinator), Lal Teer, added:

“Some SPS and trade gaps have been addressed through this project, but there is a need to expand this work to cover a broader range of high-value horticultural crops.”

Mr. Asadullah, former Director General of DAE, highlighted the ongoing activities related to the SPS IMS web portal, which is maintained by the Plant Quarantine Wing (PQW) and ICT. Mr. Ahsan Ullah outlined the current challenges related to MRLs and trade. Both welcomed the audience.

Project Highlights

Dr. K.S. Varaprasad, Adviser – Biosecurity and Bioresources, APAARI, presented an overview of Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the project. He also highlighted key initiatives, including:

• SPS IMS Web Portal for information management and regulatory support.
• Brief explanation on draft Biopesticide Registration Guidelines 
• Capacity-building for designated PQW officials.
• Stakeholder consultations on biopesticide regulations involving private sector and academia.
• Emphasis on production and application of local microbial strains
• Promotion of biopesticide adoption to meet SPS requirements
• Establishment of the Asia-Pacific Biopesticide Community of Practice (ABCOP) to foster regional collaboration and Community of practice for Public private partnership
• Linkage with the global EUPHRESCO III network for coordinated plant health strategies.
  

Panel Session: Insights from Experts

A dynamic panel discussion brought valuable insights from national and international experts:

Dr. Nirmal Kumar Dutta, CSO and Head of Entomology Division, BARI:
“It is important to prioritize the production and isolation of local microbial pesticides, as imported ones are often less effective in our local context.”

Mr. Md. Monjurul Islam, Advisor, BFVPEA:
“We urgently need modern technologies and enhanced R&D. Strengthening market access and agricultural diplomacy is essential to meet global export standards.”

Mr. Mizanur Rahman, Senior Evaluator, APVMA, Australia:
“National-level planning is vital—this includes aligning Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) with Codex standards, stakeholder engagement, data sharing, and regulatory harmonization. Training for farmers, regulators, and private stakeholders must be prioritized to promote sustainable trade.”

Mr. Md. Nure Alam Siddique, Deputy Director, Pesticide Administration, PPW, DAE:
“So far, we’ve registered 109 biopesticides which are helping farmers. We are committed to developing regulations that simplify biopesticide registration and promote safer practices.”

Dr. Amirul Bahrain, Assistant Director, PQW, DAE:
“Strengthening relationships between regulators and private industries is essential for effective governance and long-term economic sustainability.”

Way Forward

The workshop concluded with a productive Q&A session and a forward-looking discussion led by Dr. K.S. Varaprasad and Dr. Ravi Khetarpal.  Read more here

Conclusion 

Participants reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the SPS agenda and ensuring that the project’s outcomes continue to benefit Bangladesh’s agricultural trade. 

Acknowledgements

APAARI acknowledges the strong support and collaboration of:

• Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC)
• Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE)
• Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI)
• Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission (BAEC)
• BSA
• Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University
• Lal Teer seed limited
• Ispahani Agro Ltd
• Russell IPM Bangladesh ltd
• Bangladesh Fruits, Vegetables & Allied Products Exporters’ Association (BFVAPEA)
• Centre for Agriculture & Bioscience International (CABI)
• Swisscontact
• Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA)

Workshop Management Team:
Dr. Ravi Khetarpal, Executive Director, APAARI
Dr. K.S. Varaprasad, Adviser – Biosecurity and Bioresources, APAARI
Ms. Homaira Jahan Sonom, Technical Officer, APAARI
Ms. Sunandhini R, Consultant
Dr. Ahsan Ullah, SPS Technical Support – Bangladesh, APAARI
Dr. Md. Asadullah, Advisor (Government Relations – Bangladesh), APAARI
Ms. Darshika P. Senadheera, Communication Officer, APAARI
Ms. Sokharath Samnang, Executive Assistant, APAARI