Bangladesh's potato export landscape is undergoing a transformation, with exports reaching 55,115 tons between July and April this fiscal year, a fourfold increase from 12,300 tons in FY 2024. This surge positions Bangladesh as an emerging potato exporter, with a projected total of over 77,162 tons by the season's end, according to the Bangladesh Potato Exporters Association.
The rise in exports is driven by strong domestic production, with the Department of Agricultural Extension forecasting a record output of 12.1 million tons, exceeding national consumption needs by approximately 4.4 million tons. This surplus offers export opportunities, but challenges remain, particularly in ensuring accurate production data for effective market planning.
Despite producing high-yield varieties, Bangladesh faces storage and market access issues. Farmers often experience low prices or spoilage due to inadequate infrastructure. These challenges are not limited to potatoes but extend to other crops like tomatoes and leafy vegetables, increasing farmer distress.
Nevertheless, potatoes remain a staple crop due to their adaptability and low input requirements. Data from the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics show consistent growth in potato cultivation, even amid occasional setbacks. Last year, a domestic shortfall led to imports and price spikes, but current retail prices have stabilized, reflecting a strong harvest and rising exports.
The Financial Express attributes this export growth to strong yields, reduced local prices, international demand, new export-quality varieties, and lower cargo fares. Regional tensions have redirected some export orders from India and Pakistan to Bangladesh, strengthening its market position. Current export prices are around $300 per ton, with Malaysia as the primary destination, followed by Nepal, Singapore, and several Middle Eastern countries.
Experts recommend aligning cultivation with import standards and improving storage and logistics to sustain export growth. A strategic approach could boost rural incomes and reduce waste, turning Bangladesh's potato surplus into a valuable export resource. Coordinated efforts among policymakers, exporters, and agricultural stakeholders are essential for maximizing this potential.
Source: Financial Express