Development of Sustainable Gross National Income from Potato Export in Bangladesh- A Perspective Review

Abstract

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) in Bangladesh has arisen fast due to economic liberalization coupled with growing urbanization, expanding market options. The potato is considered to be a potential crop to face the challenge of 21st century. It can serve the food security of the ever growing population, creation of job opportunities and developing agro-based and agro-processing industries in the country for sustainable economic growth. Bangladesh achieved a remarkable success in potato production to take it to 7th rank in the world map. Potato production is increasing day by day both vertically and horizontally. In 2014, total production was 8.6 million tons and the consumption capacity was 6.5 million tons, rest 2.1 million tons was surplus. So need to export potato to foreign countries. But the major constraints for this is non-availability of sufficient suitable varieties with high dry matter (>21%) and low reducing sugar content (<0.01%). Identification of cropping zones, technology packages for production of export quality varieties, non-availability of resistant varieties for bacterial wilt and technologies for long period storage are other limitations in developing export sectors in the country. To meet the instant need of the processing varieties, the variety introduction procedure may be liberalized under a crush programme to ensure quick inflow of processing varieties in the country. Export of potatoes is an important avenue to expand utilization of potatoes grown in the country.