Chattogram:Sugarcane cultivation and production have seen a steady increase over the past five years in Chattogram, with lush fields of the crop becoming a common sight in the region. This growth is particularly notable in Chandanaish, Satkania, Boalkhali, Banshkhali, Rangunia, and Sandwip.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, sugarcane has been consistently available in markets for around two months and is expected to supply the market for several more months. Authorities have noted that sugarcane is cultivated across nearly all 15 upazilas of Chattogram, with optimal yields on 'char' lands and nutrient-rich alluvial soils along riverbanks.
Mohammad Ali Jinnah, an agricultural specialist and Additional Director of the Department of Agricultural Extension (Chattogram Region), highlighted the high yields seen along the Sangu and Dalu rivers, with expansion also occurring along the Karnaphuli and Ichamati river corridors. He identified the Dohazari area of Chandanaish and Satkania as key sources for commercial market supply.
Data from the Chattogram District Office of the Department of Agricultural Extension shows a significant increase in sugarcane cultivation and production. From 2021 to 2026, the cultivated area grew from 366 to 440 hectares, production rose from 19,067 to 25,092 metric tonnes, and yield improved from 52 to 58 tonnes per hectare.
Md Abul Kashem, a sugarcane farmer from Dohazari, reported cultivating sugarcane on approximately two acres of land with a cultivation cost of Tk 50,000 per kani. He noted selling prices of Tk 120,000 to Tk 150,000 per kani, resulting in a net profit of Tk 70,000 to Tk 100,000 per kani.
Apru Marma, Deputy Director of the Department of Agricultural Extension in Chattogram, emphasized the positive impact of riverbank soils, sunlight, and fertility on sugarcane productivity. Marma added that good returns from sugarcane cultivation have prompted more farmers to shift focus to this crop, supported by government technical and informational assistance.