Jute, widely known as the Golden Fibre of Bangladesh, is a centuries-old agricultural heritage of the country. At present, Bangladesh cultivates mainly three varieties of jute, and the demand for quality jute seeds is increasing steadily among farmers.
According to farmers’ requirements, the country needs approximately 5,000 to 6,000 tons of jute seeds annually. However, the Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation (BADC) is currently able to produce and supply only about 2,000 tons each year. To meet the shortfall, nearly 4,000 tons of jute seeds are imported annually from India, costing around Tk 80 to 100 crore, said a press release.
In view of this situation, the Hon’ble Prime Minister has directed the authorities concerned to take effective measures to ensure domestic production of the required quantity of jute seeds, reducing import dependency as much as possible. Following this directive and decisions taken in an inter-ministerial meeting, BADC has formulated a comprehensive action plan to expand its production capacity.
Under the four-year plan prepared by the Chairman of BADC in consultation with relevant officials, 12 new jute seed contract farming zones will be established in 12 additional districts across the country. The plan also includes a gradual increase in production capacity from the production year 2026–27 to 2029–30, with the aim of achieving self-sufficiency.
As per the action plan, jute seed production is expected to reach 2,210 tons in 2026–27, 3,150 tons in 2027–28, and 4,400 tons in 2028–29. From 2029–30 onwards, production is projected to be permanently raised to 5,000 tons, fully matching domestic capacity with national demand.
Officials concerned said that successful implementation of the plan will significantly reduce dependence on imported seeds, while also ensuring that farmers receive high-quality jute seeds at lower prices. This initiative is expected to become a major milestone in improving the country’s agricultural production management system.