Assessment of Agrochemical Consumption Trends, Crop Protection Pathways, and Rice Yield Intensity in Bangladesh (2010–2024)

Sustainable intensification of cereal production in Bangladesh is critical for national food security given the country’s high population density and limited arable land. This working paper examines the relationship between agrochemical inputs (pesticides and fertilizers) and cereal crop yields—specifically Boro and Aman rice (Oryza sativa)—across Bangladesh over the 2010–2024 period. Utilizing macro-level datasets from FAOSTAT (2024), World Bank (2024), and the Bangladesh Crop Protection Association (2022), we analyze input-output dynamics alongside the evolving national pesticide registration framework. Results indicate a steady rise in cereal yield intensity from 4,120 kg/ha in 2010 to 5,408 kg/ha in 2024. Total pesticide consumption (active ingredient) experienced fluctuations—reaching a low of 33,371 MT in 2015 before stabilizing around 39,080 MT—reflecting regulatory interventions, market adjustments, and a strategic shift toward modern, lower-dose, and bio-rational formulations. The paper highlights the critical role of product development teams and registration authorities in applying sound risk-benefit evaluations, toxicological data reviews, and registration by analogy/equivalence to accelerate farmer access to safe, high-efficacy crop protection tools.