For the first time, mangoes grown in Bangladesh using Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) have been exported to Switzerland, marking a significant step for the country's fresh produce sector, as reported by BSS news.
Cultivated in Dinajpur's Hakimpur upazila, these mangoes were produced under a government-supported project to promote sustainable and export-ready agriculture. The GAP method includes covering fruits with protective bags while on the tree to reduce pesticide use and ensure clean, disease-free produce. This approach not only meets international safety standards but also extends the fruit's shelf life, critical for export.
This season, over 2.4 metric tons of mangoes were shipped from the region to European destinations. The produce was grown on a one-acre demonstration plot and monitored closely by agricultural extension officers for quality control, from soil testing to post-harvest handling.
Officials believe the successful shipment is a milestone that could pave the way for broader exports. With the right support and adherence to GAP standards, more growers in northern Bangladesh could gain access to high-value markets.
Source: BSS News
