Bangladesh is intensifying efforts to expand its fruit production and exports, aiming to strengthen both its domestic agricultural sector and its international market presence. In an interview with Samakal, Agriculture Secretary Dr. Mohammad Emdad Ullah Mian outlined the country's strategic focus on fruit farming as a key driver of economic growth.
Currently, Bangladesh produces around 14.8 million tons of fruits annually across 72 species, with bananas, jackfruit, mangoes, guavas, and pineapples leading production. The country ranks second globally in jackfruit production and eighth in both mango and guava output. With 30 fruit types already exported to markets such as the Middle East, Europe, Japan, and North America, recent exports include 600 tons of mangoes to 25 countries at the start of the current season.
Despite these achievements, Bangladesh faces significant challenges in post-harvest management, cold storage infrastructure, and international quality standards. Around 25-30% of fruits are lost after harvest due to limited storage and transport facilities. To address these issues, the government is investing in packhouses, grading centres, and cold storage expansion, while also working to streamline export processes through facilities such as a new steam heat treatment plant in Gabtoli.
Plans are also underway to establish export-oriented fruit cultivation zones in at least 20 districts by 2030. With focused support on GAP training, certifications, and SME financing, Bangladesh aims to develop its fruit sector into a robust export industry while ensuring farmers benefit from higher incomes and reduced post-harvest losses.
Source: Samakal