The ongoing fertiliser shortage in the country has reached alarming proportions, leaving farmers in a precarious position as they approach the critical boro cultivation season.
Reports published in this newspaper on Wednesday indicate that a syndicate, allegedly led by a business group, is manipulating the market by imposing artificial delays and restrictive conditions on fertiliser distribution.
This situation not only threatens the livelihoods of farmers but also jeopardises the nation’s food security.
The allegations against syndicated traders are deeply concerning. Dealers have reported delays of up to three weeks in receiving subsidised fertilisers, with some forced to navigate cumbersome processes that include personal visits and the use of designated transport services.
Such practices are detrimental to small traders and disrupt the grassroots distribution network essential for timely agricultural support.
While other importers appear to be fulfilling their obligations without issue, Dealers’ prioritisation of profit over prompt delivery raises serious questions about their commitment to the agricultural sector.
The government’s recent approval to import 100,000 tons of fertilisers under G2G agreements is a step in the right direction, but critics argue that these measures are insufficient.
The Vice-Chairman of the BNP, Shamsuzzaman Dudu, has rightly pointed out the authorities’ failure to act against the syndicate, highlighting a lack of preparedness that has exacerbated the crisis.
Hasan Zafir Tuhin, President of Jatiyatabadi Krishak Dal, has echoed these sentiments, accusing the government of enabling the practices that harm farmers.
The Ministry of Agriculture must take these allegations seriously. While Deputy Secretary Mohammad Moniruzzaman claims no formal complaints have been received, the widespread reports from dealers suggest a systemic issue that cannot be ignored.
The ministry must act swiftly to investigate these claims and implement reforms in fertiliser distribution practices.
As the boro season progresses, the urgency for reform cannot be overstated. Farmers depend on timely access to fertilisers to ensure a successful harvest, and the current crisis threatens not only their livelihoods but also the food security of the nation.
The government must prioritise the needs of farmers and small traders, ensuring that fertiliser distribution is fair, transparent, and efficient. Only then can we hope to safeguard the future of agriculture in Bangladesh.
