A delegation of seaweed experts from Indonesia visited the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI) Cox’s Bazar Office to observe the progress of local research and explore opportunities for scientific collaboration and knowledge exchange in the relevant field.
This visit is part of our market system development initiatives in the seaweed sector in Cox’s Bazar under the Global Affairs Canada (GAC)-funded Improving Skills and Economic Opportunities for Women and Youth in Cox’s Bazar (ISEC) project, implemented by the International Labour Organization (ILO).
The delegation was received by Dr. Mostak Ahmed, Chief Scientific Officer at BARI Cox’s Bazar, who guided them through the facility’s seaweed laboratory. He shared the ongoing innovations in coastal agriculture, particularly the advancements in seaweed cultivation and processing techniques. The experts expressed their appreciation for the high-quality research and significant technical advancements achieved by the local team.
During the visit, BARI also provided updates on its plans to establish a dedicated Seaweed Research Center in Cox’s Bazar. This center will serve as a national hub for scientific innovation, knowledge sharing, and the sustainable development of Bangladesh’s marine agriculture sector. It is expected to contribute significantly to strengthening the foundation for seaweed-based livelihoods and commercial applications.
The visit reflects the growing potential of Bangladesh’s emerging seaweed industry and highlights the power of South-South cooperation and knowledge exchange between Indonesia and Bangladesh. This initiative is expected to catalyze new business linkages, scientific collaborations, and long-term investments in seaweed-based livelihoods along the country’s southern coast.