World Bank says subsidy-heavy agriculture budget leaves little room for productivity gains

World Bank says subsidy-heavy agriculture budget leaves little room for productivity gains

80% of Bangladesh's agricultural spending goes to fertilizer subsidies: richest 20% receive ~50% of benefits while poorest 40% get 15%, World Bank reports. Inequitable allocation crowds out R&D, irrigation, digital delivery (e-vouchers, Farmer Cards) and climate resilience; rebalancing toward high-return investments is critical for productivity.