Tk3,000cr fund allocated for agro-entrepreneurs in Rajshahi: Adviser
Entrepreneurs can access loans at 5-9% interest rates
Highlights
- Government plans to reopen closed industries
- Better processing could boost exports and incomes
The government has allocated a Tk3,000 crore fund for agro-entrepreneurs in the Rajshahi region, Prime Minister's Finance and Planning Adviser Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir said today (4 August).
He disclosed the information while speaking at a Regional Conference on Agro Processing in Rajshahi, stating that the entrepreneurs will be able to take loans from the fund at interest rates ranging from 5% to 9% and urging them to take advantage of the facility.
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"The government has taken the initiative to promote development in the agricultural sector," he added.
Titumir said the Rajshahi region produces an agricultural surplus and that initiatives will be taken to export agricultural products produced through good agricultural practices.
He also said closed industrial plants and factories in the region would be reopened from December, in line with the government's election pledge, creating employment opportunities for many people.
The conference also highlighted new investment opportunities in agriculture and agro-based industries in the Rajshahi region.
Discussions focused on value addition for mangoes, lychees, rice, vegetables and other agricultural products, modern agro-processing, cold chains, storage facilities, export expansion and job creation.
Speakers said the northern region is rich in agricultural production, but farmers often fail to receive fair prices because of inadequate processing industries.
They said increased investment in processing agricultural products to international standards could boost exports while increasing farmers' incomes.
The conference also discussed creating an investment-friendly environment, government support, infrastructure development and private-sector participation.
