Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid said Bangladesh must increase fish production to meet public demand without compromising quality. He made the remarks on Sunday at Aquaculture Knowledge Day-2026, organised by Fishtech BD Limited at a hotel in the capital. He called for coordinated work by researchers, scientists and entrepreneurs to ensure safe food and improve the acceptance of Bangladeshi products in international markets.

The minister said Bangladesh does not currently face a major shortfall in food production, but producing high-quality food remains a major challenge. He said quality agricultural products are essential if the country wants to advance its economy through agricultural exports. About 75 percent of the population is directly or indirectly involved in agriculture, he said, adding that strengthening this group economically would help build a more stable national economy.

Amin Ur Rashid urged researchers to explore natural solutions that reduce dependence on antibiotics and vaccines, and warned against food-production methods that could harm long-term health. He said the government has begun research into rising heavy-metal contamination in soil, water and rice, including lead and arsenic. He also stressed reducing groundwater extraction for irrigation and considering the use of freshwater from rivers.