Bangladeshโs agricultural sector is currently facing a severe dual crisis involving fertilizer shortages and irrigation disruptions during the critical Boro rice cultivation season, triggering widespread concern and frustration among farmers across the country.
Although government officials claim that fertilizer supply remains stable and well-managed, the situation on the ground presents a different reality. Farmers in several regions report being forced to purchase fertilizers at prices higher than the official rate. In many areas, they are also seen waiting in long queues for hours without receiving the required supply.
According to reports published in national newspapers, dealers in some districts are allegedly creating artificial shortages of urea and DAP fertilizers by stockpiling them and selling at inflated prices. However, there has been little visible action from authorities to investigate or address these allegations effectively.
At the same time, irrigation activities are being seriously affected due to a shortage of diesel fuel. Farmers and irrigation pump operators say that they are struggling to obtain fuel, forcing many to reduce or completely stop irrigation operations. As a result, crops in the fields are at risk of damage due to a lack of timely water supply, particularly in areas that depend entirely on irrigation.
Agricultural experts warn that the ongoing situation could significantly reduce crop production, as the Boro season heavily depends on the timely availability of both fertilizers and irrigation.
The government has cited global factors, including geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, as contributing to the fuel shortage. However, stakeholders argue that internal management weaknesses, lack of market monitoring, and failure to control syndicates have also significantly worsened the crisis.
Concerns have further increased following the temporary suspension of production at the Shahjalal Fertilizer Factory due to a gas shortage. Analysts believe this development could create additional pressure on fertilizer supply in the coming months.
Bangladeshโs agriculture sector remains heavily import-dependent, particularly for fertilizer production, which relies on natural gas. Although there have been repeated commitments to expand domestic production capacity and strengthen energy security, progress in these areas has been limited.
Experts note that earlier measures such as increased agricultural subsidies, improved fertilizer distribution monitoring, and the expansion of electricity-based irrigation systems had helped stabilize production. However, recent policy gaps and weak coordination are now threatening those earlier gains.
Economists warn that if the current situation continues, it may negatively impact overall food production, leading to higher food prices and increasing pressure on consumers nationwide.
Farmers are urging the government to take immediate and effective measures, including strict monitoring of the fertilizer market, ensuring uninterrupted fuel supply for irrigation, and taking strong action against market manipulation and syndicates.
As the Boro season progresses, the ongoing crisis in the agricultural sector not only threatens farmersโ livelihoods but also raises serious concerns about the countryโs future food security
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