Shrimp farming in Bangladesh has been expanded rapidly following huge demand in the international
market. This fast development is however accompanied by lack of adequate planning and regulation at
the national policy level. This unplanned and haphazard shrimp farming is gathering considerable debate
due to its negative environmental and socio-economic consequences. This paper
fi
rst investigates the
nature of adverse impacts of unregulated shrimp farming in the coastal region of the country. In that
respect, the article makes a thorough evaluation of existing regulatory and institutional framework
regarding shrimp farming in Bangladesh. Ultimately, the paper argues that a paradigm shift is required
from the present sectoral approach of resource management. Finally, it recommends to pursue a holistic
approach together with integration of Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) principles into
national laws and policies for sustainable shrimp farming in Bangladesh.