Strengthening the value chains of seaweed for inclusive coastal livelihood prosperity: A strategic blueprint for fostering a sustainable blue economy of Bangladesh

Abstract

In Bangladesh, seaweed farming, primarily centered on the cultivation of Gracilaria sp. and Ulva lactuca, is increasingly recognized as a potential driver of the blue economy, with benefits for ecological resilience, livelihood diversification, and industrial innovation. However, the sector remains underdeveloped due to dependence on wild seaweed seedlings, simple production methods, weak post-harvest infrastructure, and limited market integration. This study provides one of the first empirical assessments of the emerging seaweed (Gracilaria sp. and U. lactuca) value chain in Bangladesh, drawing on household surveys, key informant interviews (KII), focus group discussions (FGD), and multi-stakeholder workshops to identify the present status, structural barriers, and outline a sequenced policy roadmap. Farmers practiced three main methods for cultivating both Gracilaria sp. and U. lactuca: off-bottom long-line (59.5%), off-bottom net (24.3%), and floating raft (16.2%). Average yield for both cultivated species reached 2.6 kg m⁻², generating a return on investment of 104.6%. Despite these promising margins, systemic inefficiencies persist, including supply–demand asymmetry, environmental vulnerability, and limited local market access beyond niche ethnic and hospitality demand. Weak institutional coordination, the absence of certification and processing facilities, and a lack of governance integration further inhibit sectoral transformation. Based on stakeholder consultations, a three-phased strategic framework is proposed for sector development. Phase 1 (1–3 years) prioritizes production and market foundations through early-stage production improvements, technical training, consumer awareness, and pilot product development. Phase 2 (4–7 years) focuses on strengthening industry and supply chains development through producer organizations, product diversification, quality standards, and processing infrastructure. Phase 3 (8–10 years) aims to support international market integration and ecosystem expansion through certification systems, regulatory frameworks, and export-oriented value chain development. Strengthening institutional coordination, targeted investment, and private-sector participation will be essential to transform seaweed farming from a small-scale project-driven activity into a resilient and competitive component of Bangladesh’s blue economy.