With the global demand for crabs on the rise, expanding crab farming in Bangladesh presents a significant opportunity for the country to boost its export income. Developing this sector requires increased research and collaboration between government and non-government entities. These comments were made at a workshop titled ‘Possibilities of the Crab Industry in Bangladesh, Existing Problems, and Possible Actions’, held today at the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) Bhaban in Agargaon.

The workshop was presided over by PKSF Managing Director Dr Nomita Halder ndc. Dr Benoy Kumar Barman, Interim Country Representative of the WorldFish Bangladesh was the Guest of Honor and PKSF Additional Managing Director Md Fazlul Kader delivered the opening remarks. The event – organized under the Resilient Homestead and Livelihood Support to the Vulnerable Coastal People of Bangladesh (RHL) project, funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) – was moderated by PKSF Deputy Managing Director Dr Fazle Rabbi Sadeque Ahmed.

Md Abu Nashir Khan, Assistant General Manager of PKSF, presented on ‘Introduction of PKSF and PKSF’s Interventions for Crab Subsector’. Additionally, Dr Mojibar Rahman of UNDP Bangladesh presented on ‘Potentiality of Mud Crab Industry in Bangladesh, Existing Challenges and Possible Actions’ and Dr Muhammad Meezanur Rahman, Aquaculture Scientist of WorldFish Bangladesh, made a presentation on ‘Artemia Pond Culture/Progress and Prospects’.

Speakers at the workshop highlighted various steps taken by PKSF to develop crab farming, including the establishment of crab hatcheries, crablet production at the entrepreneurial level, the establishment of crab nurseries, and the expansion of crab farming technologies. Through specialized activities under the RHL project, PKSF aims to support the government’s efforts to increase crab export against the backdrop of a growing demand in the international markets.

During the open discussion session, representatives from various government and non-governmental organizations, including PKSF’s Partner Organizations, shared their experiences and insights on crab farming.