Business Report :
On the occasion of International Women’s Day 2025, the Bangladesh Poultry Industries Central Council (BPICC) and the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) jointly highlighted the remarkable achievements of Bangladeshi women while emphasizing the need for continued efforts to address systemic barriers to gender equality.
Both the organizations underscored the critical role women play in Bangladesh’s economy and society, while also pointing out the challenges they face, including inadequate nutrition and limited access to resources.
The press release acknowledged the significant strides Bangladesh has made in women’s empowerment, driven by government policies, NGO initiatives, and the resilience of women themselves. Women are increasingly active in sectors such as the ready-made garment (RMG) industry, agriculture, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs), including poultry and livestock. According to A.T.M. Mostafa Kamal, Secretary of BPICC, women constitute 40 percent of the workforce in the poultry sector, which plays a vital role in producing affordable protein for the nation.
However, the release also highlighted the persistent challenges faced by women. These include disproportionate unpaid care work, limited control over earnings, lack of land ownership, and patriarchal norms that restrict access to resources and decision-making power. Issues such as child marriage, dowry-related violence, and limited inheritance rights further undermine women’s autonomy.
BPICC President Shamsul Arefin Khaled praised the contributions of women, stating, “Without women, no society can exist. Recognition of their contributions builds confidence, self-esteem, and motivates them to strive for excellence.” He emphasized the growing participation of women in higher education, political movements, and social initiatives, which are challenging traditional gender norms.
Nutritional Challenges and Protein Intake
Nutritionist and dietician Israt Jahan highlighted the alarming nutritional deficiencies among Bangladeshi women. Over half of women of reproductive age lack minimum dietary diversity, while 70 percent of non-pregnant, non-lactating women face multiple micronutrient deficiencies. These deficiencies have severe consequences, including low birth weight, maternal anemia, and long-term health complications for newborns.
Jahan stressed the importance of adequate protein intake for women’s overall well-being. She recommended incorporating diverse protein sources such as eggs, milk, meat, fish, soy, legumes, nuts, and seeds into daily diets.
