On 28 June 2025, Innovision Consulting has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ramada by Wyndham, Cox’s Bazar to bring seaweed-based cuisine to luxury dining. This partnership aims to transform locally harvested seaweed from coastal farms into unique, high-end dishes, making ocean vegetables a regular feature of fine dining experiences.
While coastal communities have long valued the nutritional benefits of seaweed, this “superfood of the sea” has yet to secure a strong foothold in modern markets. Despite Cox’s Bazar’s considerable potential for seaweed cultivation, the sector remains underdeveloped because of weak market access, limited product diversification, and low consumer awareness. These challenges especially affect women and youth in coastal communities who could help drive the sector’s growth.
Under the ‘Leaving No One Behind: Improving Skills and Economic Opportunities for the Bangladeshi Community and Rohingya Women & Youth in Cox’s Bazar’ (ISEC) project, funded by the Global Affairs Canada, International Labour Organization (ILO) and Innovision Consulting are collaborating with various government bodies and private sector actors to strengthen the salt and seaweed value chains in Cox’s Bazar. Our effort focuses on inclusive economic development by creating opportunities for women, youth, minorities, and persons with disabilities. It also aims to improve labor standards and build resilient, market-driven systems that support sustainable growth.
Under the new agreement, trained culinary experts supported by Innovision have co-developed seaweed-based recipes tailored for hotel dining. Ramada has already begun piloting these dishes and refining them based on customer feedback. Looking ahead, the partnership plans to launch awareness campaigns to promote seaweed as a nutritious and sustainable superfood.