Desk Report:
Food Minister Afroza Khanam, MP, inaugurated the 11th BAPA FoodPro International Expo-2026, held at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) in the capital. Following the inauguration, she visited various stalls at the fair.
Speaking as the chief guest at the inaugural ceremony held on Thursday (September 10, 2026), the Food Minister stated that the production and processing of safe, high-quality food and the use of modern technology are crucial for the development of the country’s food industry. She emphasized that the government, entrepreneurs, and all relevant stakeholders must work in a coordinated manner to further advance the nation’s food and agro-based industries—sectors that hold immense potential.
She noted that the government is prioritizing the implementation of pledges made in the BNP’s election manifesto under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman—specifically regarding food security, the development of agriculture and the farming community, and ensuring safe, quality food for the public.
The Food Minister further added that, alongside ensuring food security, supplying safe, hygienic, and high-quality food to consumers is a top priority for the government. In this regard, emphasis must be placed on quality control at every stage—from food production to processing, storage, and marketing.
She urged entrepreneurs in the country’s food and processed food sectors to strengthen their position in the international market. She highlighted the opportunities to earn foreign currency by enhancing the quality of domestic food products and expanding exports through the use of modern technology and innovation.
Food Minister Afroza Khanam stated that initiatives are underway to transform the country’s food processing industry into a modern, technology-driven sector that meets international standards; these efforts aim to ensure fair prices for agricultural produce, reduce waste, create employment, and boost the export of domestic products. Events like the BAPA FoodPro International Expo play a vital role in realizing these government commitments by fostering connections among entrepreneurs, technologists, and international partners. The exhibition has been jointly organized by the Bangladesh Agro-Processors’ Association (BAPA) and Rainbow Exhibition and Event Management Services Limited (REIMS). Over 200 brands from 37 countries are participating in this year’s event.
Participating nations include Algeria, Australia, Bangladesh, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Iran, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Pakistan, Poland, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, Turkey, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Presided over by BAPA President Mahbub Anam, the event was attended by special guests including Antonio Alessandro, the Italian Ambassador to Bangladesh; Md. Shafiqul Islam, Chairman of the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority; and Md. Hafizur Rahman, Administrator of the FBCCI. Also present were Ahsan Khan Chowdhury, Chairman of the Expo Organizing Committee and PRAN-RFL Group, along with representatives from BAPA, the Expo Organizing Committee, and Rainbow Exhibition and Event Management Services Limited (REIMS).
