Bangladesh Eyes Egg Exports

Bangladesh produces approximately 25.9 billion eggs annually, exceeding its estimated yearly demand of 18.55 billion and creating potential for export-led foreign exchange earnings. However, experts say government subsidies for the poultry sector and more veterinarians at the upazila level are needed to reduce production costs and strengthen animal healthcare.

The opportunities and challenges were highlighted at a seminar organised by the Faculty of Veterinary Science at Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) on Saturday, October 10, marking World Egg Day 2026. The seminar, titled “Protein That Powers and Protects,” was held at the faculty’s Medicine Gallery.

Professor Dr Md Bahanur Rahman, president of the Bangladesh Veterinary Council and dean of BAU’s Faculty of Veterinary Science, said Bangladesh had significant potential to earn foreign currency by exporting its surplus eggs.

Highlighting production costs, he said, “The high prices of feed, vaccine costs and farm management expenses are major obstacles to egg production. Considering these combined costs, producing a single egg currently costs around Tk10 to Tk11. In this situation, government subsidies should be provided to the poultry sector, as in agriculture, to protect farmers’ interests and ensure affordable eggs for consumers.”

Experts Call for More Veterinarians

Emphasising the need to ensure animal healthcare, Professor Bahanur Rahman said, “Currently, there is one veterinarian in each upazila. However, it is difficult for one person to provide treatment to 50,000 to 60,000 animals. To prevent animal diseases, expand veterinary services and increase livestock productivity, at least five to six veterinarian posts should be created in each upazila.”

The seminar was chaired by Professor Dr Md Bahanur Rahman. Guests included Professor Dr Md Ali Reza Faruk, dean of the Faculty of Fisheries Science, and Professor Dr Md Rafiqul Alam of the Department of Surgery and Obstetrics, who is also convener of the World Egg Day celebration committee. The event was moderated by Professor Dr Marzia Rahman of the Department of Microbiology and Hygiene, member-secretary of the committee.

The keynote presentation was delivered by Professor Dr Md Shafiqul Islam of the Department of Pharmacology. He described eggs as a nutritious food containing high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and selenium. According to him, eggs play an important role in brain and muscle development, physical strength and disease prevention.

3,500 Eggs Distributed Free

Earlier, a colourful rally began in front of BAU’s Faculty of Veterinary Science to mark World Egg Day. It passed through the university’s convocation square, administrative building and major roads.

Later, 3,500 eggs were distributed free of charge among university students, students from seven schools on campus, pedestrians, vehicle drivers and working people.

//DBTech/RBN/SMP/MNO//