Bangladesh's potato export sector is experiencing remarkable growth in fiscal year 2024-25, climbing the its highest in three years, says Md Irfan of R S Enterprise, a leading fresh produce exporter based in Bangladesh. "Exports reached 62,135 tonnes, which marks nearly a fourfold increase from 12,300 tonnes exported in the previous fiscal year," he notes, attributing the boom largely to strong domestic production and a substantial drop in local prices.
According to Irfan, Bangladesh continues to rank among the world's top potato producers, with an estimated national production of about 13 million tonnes in FY '25. "With domestic prices falling to as low as USD 0.05 to 0.16 per kg, exporters are sourcing potatoes at nearly half the price paid last year, while improved logistics and lower cargo costs play a critical role in lifting shipment volumes."
© RS Enterprise
"Bangladesh exports several key varieties, including Diamond, Granola, Asterix, Lady Rosetta, Santana, Courage, and the newly popular Sunshine variety, known for its appealing size and colour. Compared to last season, production and availability have improved due to favourable weather and enhanced post-harvest handling," Irfan observes. "Yields have risen by an estimated 8 to 12 percent, resulting in more uniform quality, better size consistency, lower moisture content, and longer shelf life, supporting Bangladesh's capacity to supply both table and processing-grade potatoes."
Still, Irfan points to prevailing challenges: "Seasonal weather fluctuations, inconsistent cold-chain infrastructure, strict import regulations including residue limits and bans, and freight variabilities weigh on competitiveness. Despite these hurdles, Bangladesh's stable production and competitive pricing make it a reliable source for fresh potatoes," he assures.
© RS Enterprise
As for the global market, some Bangladesh exporters report shipping at approximately US $300 per tonne, says Irfan, to highlight trade competitiveness supported by both the volume rise, competitive procurement opportunities, and declining retail costs. "Exporters are currently procuring at around USD 0.05 to 0.16 per kg, sharply down from around USD 0.25 per kg in the previous year, while the domestic retail prices collapsed to USD 0.05 to 0.25 per kg from USD 0.4 to 0.5 earlier."
Looking forward, Irfan shares a positive outlook. "There are expectations of exports to exceed 70,000 tonnes by the end of 2025. Improved packaging, logistics, ongoing varietal improvements, and growing demand from Asian markets like Malaysia, Singapore, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the Middle East.will support this trend."
For more information:
Md Irfan
R S Enterprise
Tel: +880 1727 666 065
Email: [email protected]
www.r-senterprise.com
