The Rice Seed Delivery System in Bangladesh: Institutional and Policy Issues
Mahabub Hossain, Aldas Janaiah, Muazzam Husain & Firdousi Naher
Abstract
The paper provides insight into the adequacy of institutional linkages and policy conditions of the current seed delivery system based on information collected through interviews with executives from 19 key agencies and stakeholders in the seed market. The public sector is performing a wide range of roles from the development of a modern variety to the final distribution of seeds to the farmers. The private sector and NGOs are expanding their roles with increasing demand for quality rice seeds for the newly released varieties. Lack of incentives for plant breeders to produce enough breeder seeds, and simultaneous participation of the public and private sector in the production and distribution of certified seeds may constrain the expansion of the market. The paper discusses the emerging public-private sector interface and adequacy of policy environment for further development of the rice seed market.