Development of a National Food Environment Strategy for Bangladesh

By 2027, the Ministry of Food, in collaboration with the Ministries of Agriculture (MoA), Fisheries and Livestock (MoFL), Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Bangladesh National Nutrition Council (BNNC), Education(MoE), Local Government, Rural Development & Cooperatives (MoLGRD&C), Commerce(MoC), Industry(MoI), Finance (MoF), civil society organizations, academia, private sector actors, the UN Agencies, and development partners, commits to developing a comprehensive & 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, prioritize 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, engagement with diverse stakeholders, and 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 minimizing environmental harm.

MoFood will coordinate and monitor the process, with an estimated cost of BDT 30 million, mobilized from public funds, development partners, and NGOs.