China contribution to help improve living conditions of Rohingya

China's contribution will enable the World Food Programme (WFP) to procure 2,100 tonnes of fortified rice, pulses, and cooking oil - enough to provide a three-month food ration to around 45,000 Rohingya refugees living in the world's largest refugee camp in Cox's Bazar, according to a media statement released on Friday.

China has been providing food assistance to the Rohingya through the UN food programme.

The WFP welcomed the contribution from the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA).

Dom Scalpelli, WFP Country Director, expressed gratitude, stating, "This generous funding from China could not have come at a more critical time. With humanitarian needs rising and resources under immense pressure, this contribution allows us to continue delivering lifesaving food assistance to some of the most vulnerable people in the world."

Chargé d'Affaires of the Chinese embassy in Dhaka mentioned, "This will undoubtedly play a positive role in improving the living conditions of the Rohingya people in Bangladesh and alleviating the humanitarian crisis."

Now in its eighth year, the Rohingya crisis has seen the refugee population in Bangladesh surpass one million. A recent influx of 150,000 new arrivals has placed further strain on overstretched humanitarian operations and limited resources.

To maintain full food rations for the Rohingya population over the next 12 months, WFP requires an additional US$120 million. Without new funding, this vital assistance will run out by the end of October 2025, as stated in the media release.

"We hope this contribution marks not only continued engagement, but a deepening of China's role in responding to this ongoing crisis," added Scalpelli.

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