The import dependency on food grains in the country remains high, exacerbated by inconsistencies in production and demand, and systemic weaknesses. In the fiscal year 2023-24, imports included 87.12 million tons of various food and agricultural products, down from 91.55 million tons in the previous year. Wheat imports surged to 6.662 million tons, while maize imports dropped significantly to 384,000 tons. Lentils, chickpeas, onions, garlic, and other commodities were also imported in substantial quantities. Despite government efforts to boost domestic production through subsidies and incentives, challenges like climate change impacts, production costs, and insufficient technology hinder full utilization of agricultural potential. This import reliance strains foreign exchange reserves, with expenditures reaching 87.743 billion taka in FY 2022-23 for essential imports. Strategies to diversify crops, enhance production efficiency, and support farmers are crucial for reducing import dependence and stabilizing food security.
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