Blue gold rush: Bangladesh unlocks coastal riches with new seafood export incentives

In a significant move to unlock the potential of its maritime resources, the Maheshkhali Integrated Development Authority (MIDA) convened a high-level inter-ministerial meeting on Monday, October 13, to accelerate the development of deep-sea fisheries and the broader blue economy. Held at BIDA Bhaban in Agargaon, the consultative session brought together senior officials from key ministries and regulatory bodies – including Fisheries and Livestock, Commerce, Environment, the National Board of Revenue (NBR), Bangladesh Economic Zone Authority (BEZA), and Cox’s Bazar District Administration – to finalise an eight-point action plan aimed at transforming Bangladesh into a competitive player in global seafood markets. Chaired by MIDA Executive Chairman Ashiq Chowdhury, the meeting formally elevated deep-sea fishing to the status of a national development...