Bangladesh is set to expand its mango cultivation to approximately 205,034 hectares, aiming for a production target of 2.7 million metric tons this season. There is an expectation to export around 5,000 metric tons of mango, marking a new venture into the Chinese market. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between Bangladesh and China, facilitating this export initiative.
Project Director Arifur Rahman from the exportable mango production project anticipates a bumper mango production, contingent on favorable conditions. He noted the necessity of registration from the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China (GACC) for exporting food items to China. Bangladesh received GACC registration for mango export last July, with further evaluations ongoing.
If all conditions align, exports to China could commence from June, potentially opening new opportunities. The Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE) reported a production of 23,50,499 metric tons in FY21, rising to 27,07,459 metric tons in FY23. However, FY24 saw a decrease to 25,08,973 metric tons.
Mango export statistics reveal an increase from 309 metric tons in FY17 to 1,757 metric tons in FY22. Although production reached 3,100 metric tons in FY23, it declined to 1,321 metric tons in FY24. Major mango-producing areas include Rajshahi, Naogaon, Satkhira, and Chapainawabganj, with harvesting starting from 5 May with the Gopalbhogh variety.
Globally, Bangladesh ranks seventh in mango production, exporting to various countries, while major exporters include Mexico, Thailand, and Brazil.
Source: The Business Standard