In a significant move to meet rising demand, Australia has shipped 33,000 metric tonnes of desi chickpeas to Bangladesh as the country prepares for Ramadan. This shipment, which originated from Queensland, marks a notable first-time order facilitated by the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) in collaboration with a major Bangladeshi conglomerate.
Meeting Demand During Ramadan
As Ramadan approaches, Bangladesh typically experiences a sharp increase in demand for pulses. In response, Australia has positioned itself as a reliable supplier. According to Ben Carson, Trade and Investment Commissioner at Austrade, “Australia is well positioned to support Bangladesh’s growing food and nutrition needs through a reliable, high-quality and sustainable supply of agricultural commodities.”
Austrade plays a crucial role in connecting Australian producers with Bangladeshi importers, thereby supporting long-term food security outcomes in the region. The demand for Australian pulses in Bangladesh is characterized by consistent repeat orders, with the country ranking among Australia’s top three export markets for chickpeas.
Logistics and Infrastructure Challenges
The shipment was loaded at the Port of Gladstone in Central Queensland before arriving at the outer anchorage of Chattogram Port. Given the infrastructure limitations at the port, the bulk cargo had to be transferred into smaller vessels, each carrying approximately 1,000-1,200 tonnes for further distribution.
The Austrade team in Dhaka observed this logistical process firsthand to gather insights on how to better support Australian exporters aiming to scale their operations in Bangladesh. These observations are expected to inform future strategies in response to seasonal demand patterns and market dynamics.
Bangladesh’s relatively open market access, with fewer tariff and non-tariff barriers compared to other regional markets, presents opportunities for Australian agrifood exports. However, success in this growing market hinges on the reliability of supply chains during peak seasons.
Austrade remains committed to collaborating with Australian exporters, buyers, and logistics partners to capitalize on the seasonal demand for pulses. The organization aims to convert this demand into sustained commercial outcomes, ensuring that the needs of the Bangladeshi market are met effectively.
As Bangladesh continues to experience population growth and evolving food requirements, the demand for Australian pulses is expected to grow. The recent shipment of chickpeas not only demonstrates Australia’s capacity to meet this demand but also underscores the importance of international partnerships in addressing food security challenges.
