Dhaka: Bangladesh is poised to achieve a record in mango production and export this season, as 2,05,034 hectares of land have been earmarked for mango cultivation with a target of producing 27 lakh metric tons of the fruit. The officials anticipate exporting about 5,000 metric tons of mangoes to international markets.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Bangladesh exports mangoes annually to around 38 countries, including the UK, Italy, France, and Canada. For the first time, mangoes will be exported to China following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two nations. Arifur Rahman, project director of the exportable mango production project, expressed optimism about a bumper mango harvest, contingent on favorable weather conditions. He also reiterated the export target of 5,000 metric tons.
Arifur Rahman further mentioned that exporting mangoes to China requires registration from the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China (GACC). Bangladesh received this registration last July, and various logistical aspects are currently under review. If successful, mango exports to China could commence in June, opening new avenues for Bangladesh's mango market.
According to the Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE), Bangladesh's mango production was 23,50,499 metric tons in FY21 with 2,02,968 hectares under cultivation. This increased to 27,07,459 metric tons in FY23. However, in FY24, production slightly declined to 25,08,973 metric tons over 2,05,034 hectares. Despite this, export figures have fluctuated, with 309 metric tons exported in FY17, increasing to 1,757 metric tons in FY22, peaking at 3,100 metric tons in FY23, and then declining to 1,321 metric tons in FY24.
Mangoes are celebrated as the "king of fruits" in Bangladesh, with various varieties cultivated across the country. Notable varieties include Fazlee, Langra, Gopalbhogh, and Himsagar, among others. Sazzad Hossain Mozumder, additional deputy director of the exportable mango production project, noted that mangoes are primarily grown in 15 districts, including Rajshahi, Naogaon, Satkhira, and Chapainawabganj. The current season's harvest is set to begin with the Gopalbhogh variety from Satkhira on May 5.
Currently ranked seventh globally in mango production, Bangladesh's mangoes are exported to countries like India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, the UK, Italy, Germany, France, Sweden, and Canada. Major exporting countries include Mexico, Thailand, Brazil, and others, with Mexico leading at 4,21,636 metric tons annually.