Photo : Ministry

DHAKA, Sept 10, 2026 (BSS) — Bangladesh will soon send a trade delegation to Sri Lanka to assess the prospects of exporting potatoes to the island nation, while opportunities for onion exports will also be explored.

The initiative is expected to help create new overseas markets for Bangladeshi agricultural products and boost bilateral trade between the two countries, said a press release.

The issue was discussed at a bilateral meeting between Commerce, Industries and Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir and Sri Lankan Minister of Trade, Commercial Activities, Food Security and Cooperative Development Wasantha Samarasinghe on the sidelines of the 11th Belt and Road Summit 2026 here today, said a press release.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed Bangladesh's agricultural production capacity, potato prices in the Sri Lankan market and challenges in regional supply chains.

Muktadir said the country has a significant surplus of potatoes and onions even after meeting domestic demand, creating a need to explore new export markets for the products.

He said new potatoes are currently being sold in Bangladesh's retail markets at Tk 25-30 per kilogram, adding that Bangladesh's relatively low production costs and competitive prices could create export opportunities in the Sri Lankan market.

The Sri Lankan minister expressed interest in importing potatoes and onions from Bangladesh, saying stronger regional trade could bring positive benefits to people across the region.

The meeting was informed that a Bangladeshi trade delegation comprising representatives of the Potato Association would visit Sri Lanka to assess the demand, prices and commercial prospects of potatoes in the country's market.

The delegation will hold meetings with local traders, food processors' associations and other relevant business organisations to explore potential export opportunities.

The Bangladesh commerce minister urged the country's private sector to establish a long-term presence in the Sri Lankan market.

He stressed the need for ensuring a year-round supply of quality products at competitive prices to sustain export markets.

The possibility of developing warehousing and other infrastructure facilities in Sri Lanka may also be examined if necessary, he added.

Both sides expressed the hope that the initiative would create a new export market for Bangladeshi agricultural products, provide farmers with opportunities to receive fair prices for their produce and enable Sri Lankan consumers to buy potatoes at relatively affordable prices.