Development of a National Food Environment Strategy for Bangladesh

By 2027, the Ministry of Food, in collaboration with the Ministries of Agriculture, Fisheries and Livestock, Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Health and Family Welfare/Bangladesh National Nutrition Council, Education, Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives, Commerce, Industry and Finance; civil society organisations; academia; private-sector actors; UN agencies; and development partners, commits to developing a comprehensive and gender-responsive National Food Environment Strategy.

This strategy will ensure a healthier, more sustainable, equitable and climate-smart food system that provides safe, nutritious and sustainable diets. While having national coverage, special focus will be placed on improving the food environment in urban settings.

The Ministry of Food will lead the development process of the strategy, involving relevant sectoral ministries and stakeholders to identify, prioritise and address challenges across physical, political, legislative, economic and social dimensions of the food environment. The strategy will include a situation analysis of the current food environment, definition of clear scope and goals and engagement with diverse stakeholders. It will align with existing sector plans, including an assessment of the impact of food systems on the health of the population and the environment. The strategy will address interconnected issues of public health, sustainability and equitable access to safe, healthy and nutritious diets, aiming to build a resilient food system that promotes well-being for all while minimising environmental harm.

The Ministry of Food will coordinate and monitor the process, with an estimated cost of BDT 30 million, mobilised from public funds, development partners and nongovernmental organisations.