The story

The coconut hispine beetle (Brontispa longissima) poses a major threat to coconut palm production in South and Southeast Asia. In Bangladesh, the beetle’s potential entry represents a serious threat to farmers’ livelihoods and trade. The country is the twelfth largest producer of coconuts worldwide. Neighbouring countries have already reported dramatic losses of up to 50-70% where the pest has become established. While the beetle has not yet been detected in Bangladesh, the dynamics of global trade and climate change make its introduction increasingly likely. 

To prevent the pest’s invasion, CABI helped Bangladesh’s National Plant Protection Organization to take structured pest‑preparedness action. This included horizon scanning and the creation of a pest risk register, which flagged the beetle as a high‑priority threat. A comprehensive Pest Risk Analysis (PRA) evaluated the probability of entry, establishment and spread.  

The PRA found the risk to be high, with potential economic and ecological threats. Mitigation measures were mapped out. They included quarantine and regulatory controls for imports of coconut and plant materials. The government introduced baggage checks and border inspections. Communication campaigns targeted growers, extension agents and quarantine officials, with continuous surveillance across borders remaining in place. 

Today, because of this proactive, science‑based strategy, Bangladesh knows it remains free of this coconut pest. The campaign demonstrates how pest preparedness can prevent invasive species from establishing and protect vital commodity sectors. The country now has effective mechanisms in place to detect pest threats early on and implement a rapid response. Systems strengthen the country’s capacity to defend its coconut industry and safeguard its broader agricultural sector. The work shows how horizon scanning, risk analysis and robust biosecurity can avert threats before they turn into major losses.