Sakif Shamim: The fisheries sector has long played a vital role in Bangladesh’s economy. It contributes significantly to our GDP and provides employment to millions of people. At present, fish exports from Bangladesh amount to nearly USD 500 million. However, to sustain our position in the global market and increase export volume further, it is essential to move beyond traditional methods and adopt modern technology. This is where E-Traceability becomes crucial.

E-Traceability is a digital system that records and monitors every step of a product’s journey—from its source to the consumer. In the case of fish, this means tracking everything: hatchery production, farm rearing, feed supply, disease control, harvesting, processing, packaging, and transportation. All information is stored on a digital platform and can be easily verified through a barcode or QR code.

Today’s international buyers are more conscious than ever about food safety and product quality. Regions like the European Union, the United States, and other developed countries enforce strict regulations for fish imports. Importers often require proof of origin, and if a product issue arises, E-Traceability makes it possible to quickly identify the source and take corrective action. Currently, Bangladesh faces challenges in fish hatcheries, feed quality, health management, and overall quality control. E-Traceability offers a practical solution to overcome these barriers.

The marine fisheries sector is particularly promising for Bangladesh. With its long coastline and vast Bay of Bengal, the country is blessed with abundant marine resources. This sector not only meets domestic demand but also earns valuable foreign exchange through exports. Fish species like tuna, pomfret, loitta, and shrimp enjoy rising global demand. By implementing E-Traceability, detailed data such as the fishing zone, trawler name, processing method, and transport records can be digitally stored. This transparency will give international buyers greater confidence in the quality and authenticity of Bangladeshi fish, ultimately expanding our export market.

The benefits of E-Traceability are multifold. Meeting international standards will open doors to new markets and increase export earnings several times over. As global buyers see that Bangladeshi fish products are produced in line with international norms and with full transparency, their trust in our brand will grow—strengthening the reputation of “Made in Bangladesh.”

For farmers, this system will also bring efficiency. They can analyze digital records to identify which farming practices, feeds, and disease-prevention measures are most effective, thereby improving productivity. E-Traceability also helps prevent fraud and counterfeit products, ensuring transparency throughout the supply chain. It creates opportunities for small-scale farmers to enter the global market by digitally verifying the quality of their produce, reducing their reliance on middlemen.

Of course, there are challenges: initial investment, lack of technological infrastructure, and the need for farmer training. But these can be addressed through public-private partnerships (PPP). Leading trade bodies like FBCCI, along with government ministries such as Commerce and Fisheries & Livestock, can work together to implement this system effectively. A pilot project involving selected farms and processing centers could be the first step. In parallel, farmers should be trained and provided with technical support. User-friendly software and mobile applications must also be developed to make the system accessible to all.

In conclusion, E-Traceability is not just a technological upgrade—it represents the future of Bangladesh’s fisheries sector. It will enhance exports, strengthen our global standing, and accelerate economic growth for the nation.

_{Author: Sakif Shamim}, _{Managing Director, Labaid Cancer Hospital & Super Specialty Centre & Labaid Agros
Deputy Managing Director, Labaid Group}