CHATTOGRAM, Aug 6, 2025 (BSS) - A new chapter has begun as Dhaka-based export company - Universe Style - recently shipped 3,500 kilograms (3.5 tons) of jackfruit to Dubai by sea for the first time.

Sources said that despite the shipment taking over 26 days to reach its destination, the quality of the jackfruit remained intact, offering hope for sea-based jackfruit exports.

"Exporters believe that with government support, a new horizon will open for exporting fruits by sea," said Saifuzzaman Manik, Managing Director of Universe Style. "It is possible to export jackfruit abroad by sea."

"In May, we successfully exported 3,500 kg of jackfruit to Dubai. Although the shipment took longer than expected, the quality of the jackfruit was maintained," he added. "We also plan to export various other types of local fruits in the same way."

He further mentioned that plans are already in place to establish a warehouse in Tangail to facilitate pineapple exports.

According to the Plant Quarantine Division of the Department of Agricultural Extension, Bangladesh exports jackfruit to various destinations, including the Middle East, the European Union, and countries such as the UK, France, Germany, Sweden, and Ireland.

The demand for jackfruit is particularly high in the Middle East, prompting most exporters to rely on air shipments for quicker delivery. However, the recent successful shipment by sea has opened up new possibilities for transporting these native fruits more cost-effectively.

AKM Mofidul Islam, Deputy Director (Export) of the Plant Quarantine Wing under the Department of Agricultural Extension, reported that Bangladesh exported 1,083 metric tons of jackfruit during the 2024-25 fiscal year, including 448 metric tons since July 1 of the current fiscal year.

He said that until now, all jackfruit exports were done by air, with only 3.5 metric tons shipped by sea in the current session.

Md. Shah Alam, Deputy Director of the Plant Quarantine Chattogram Seaport Center, highlighted that while jackfruit has long been exported by air, this recent shipment by sea from Chattogram Port to Dubai marks a significant milestone.

Exporters emphasized that sea transport could significantly reduce costs compared to air freight. However, Alauddin, owner of Dhaka-based fruit export company M/s Green Trade Home, expressed concerns about the lengthy shipping time and the risk of fruit spoilage.

He called for the establishment of a dedicated direct shipping line for sea-based fruit exports to unlock new opportunities in the sector.