Bangladesh is one of the most densely populated countries in the world with a population of over 160 million and a projected population, based on current growth trends, of well over 200 million by 2050. This demographic burden places tremendous economic, social and environmental strain on the country and dramatically affects its ability to provide for its citizens. This is particularly true in the area of food security – roughly half of Bangladeshis are unable to access sufficient food to meet their dietary needs.
USAID partners with the Government of Bangladesh (GOB) to improve the availability and access to nutritious, domestically produced foods. The U.S. Government’s Feed the Future activities improve productivity and agricultural diversity in targeted areas of southern Bangladesh and accelerate private sector competitiveness by promoting economic growth, good corporate practices and supply chain development to benefit poor farmers and businesses. In addition, USAID assistance improves the formulation and implementation of food policy in Bangladesh through research, monitoring, training and coordination within government agencies.