Wheat imports from Canada on the rise

Wheat import from Canada is progressively increasing for the production of good-quality grains in the North American country.

“We are proud to be contributing to Bangladesh's food security efforts as Canadian wheat is some of the best quality in the world,” said Heather Cruden, Canadian high commissioner in Dhaka.

Canada shipped 742,900 tonnes of wheat to Bangladesh in fiscal 2012-2013, up from 649,300 tonnes a year ago.

Her comment came in the foreword of a guide book titled Basic Tests Used to Evaluate Wheat and Flour Quality, launched yesterday at a seminar on innovation and agriculture, organised by the Canadian High Commission at Lakeshore Hotel.

Cruden said Canada is the world's largest producer of high-protein wheat and one of the top three wheat exporters. “The quality, nutritional value and versatility of Canadian grain make them essential ingredients for the finest foods and beverages the world can offer.”

The country's imports from Canada last year stood at $603.68 million, with agricultural products including wheat and lentils accounting for 80 percent of the sum. On the other hand, Bangladesh's exports to Canada stood at $1 billion last fiscal year, with apparel items accounting for the bulk of the exports.

Commerce Minister Tofail Ahmed said Bangladesh is the third biggest importer of wheat from Canada.

He went on to thank Canada for its continued provision of duty-free and quota-free access to the country's products, due to which the trade balance between the two countries is in favour of Bangladesh.

International Chamber of Commerce Bangladesh President Mahbubur Rahman, Bangladesh Agricultural University Vice-chancellor Md Rafiqul Hoque and President of the Bangladesh Agro-Processors Association Anjan Chowdhury also spoke.