The World Food Programme and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China mark the handover of humanitarian aid from China for Rohingya refugees, supported through CIDCA. Photo : WFP

DHAKA, June 20, 2025 (BSS) - The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has welcomed a contribution from China, provided through the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA).

The contribution will enable WFP to procure 2,100 metric tons of fortified rice, pulses, and cooking oil – enough to provide a three-month food ration to around 45,000 Rohingya refugees living in the world’s largest refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar.

“This generous funding from China could not have come at a more critical time,” said Dom Scalpelli, WFP Country Director at a handover ceremony held at WFP Bangladesh Country Office in Dhaka, said a press release said here.  

“With humanitarian needs rising and resources under immense pressure, this contribution allows us to continue delivering lifesaving food assistance to some of the most vulnerable people in the world,” he said.

The WFP Country Director hoped that the contribution marks not only continued engagement, but a deepening of China’s role in responding to this ongoing crisis. 

On the occasion, Chinese embassy’s Chargé d’Affaires Dr. Liu Yuyin said that this will undoubtedly play a positive role in improving the living conditions of the Rohingya people in Bangladesh and alleviating the humanitarian crisis. 

Now in its eighth year, the Rohingya crisis has seen the refugee population in Bangladesh surpass one million. 

A recent influx of 150,000 new arrivals has placed further strain on overstretched humanitarian operations and limited resources.

To maintain full food rations for the Rohingya population over the next 12 months, WFP requires an additional US$120 million. Without new funding, this vital assistance will run out by the end of October 2025.