Photo: BSS

By Md Aynal Haque

RAJSHAHI, June 16, 2025 (BSS)- Mango cultivation along with its diversified activities, particularly harvesting, sorting, transportation and marketing, has significantly intensified the rural economy in Rajshahi, Chapainawabganj, Naogaon and Natore districts.

The seasonal fruit has emerged as a profitable commercial crop, contributing immensely to both livelihoods and economic activity in the region. During the mango season, local markets bustle with trade, and numerous new business opportunities-especially for youth engaged in online sales-are being created.

Talking to BSS, Dr Azizur Rahman, Additional Director of the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), said that diversified mango-centric economic activities have bolstered the rural economy throughout the region.

"There is a target of producing around 12.55 lakh metric tonnes of mangoes with an estimated trade value of about Taka 7,000 crore in the four districts during the current season," he said.

He further stated that mango-related activities, including harvesting, transportation, stocking, marketing, consignment, and packaging, are expected to generate seasonal employment for around three lakh people, contributing to a total mango-centric economic value of approximately Taka 10,000 crore.

Mango acreage and production have seen a notable increase over the past four years, with high-yielding varieties, suitable soil texture, and favorable climatic conditions contributing to the expansion. According to official data, the region now accounts for nearly half of the country's total mango production.

Among the districts, Chapainawabganj is expected to produce the highest-4.58 lakh tonnes-followed by Naogaon with 3.78 lakh tonnes, Rajshahi with 2.86 lakh tonnes, and Natore with 1.34 lakh tonnes.

Dr Rahman expressed optimism about reaching a yield of 28 lakh metric tonnes this year due to the absence of major natural calamities and inclement weather.

Ahsan Habib, Member-Secretary of the Mango Foundation, informed BSS that there are currently 97 commercial mango farmers in Chapainawabganj. The shift from traditional to modern farming and management practices has significantly boosted both yield and quality.

He emphasized the potential for setting up mango-based industries and exploring new export markets, which could further strengthen the region's agro-based rural economy.

Popular mango varieties including Himsagar, Langra, Amrapali, and various indigenous types are now filling up local markets. Major mango markets like Baneswar, Shaheb Bazar, Haragram, Upashahar, Shalbagan, Rajabari, Godagari, Kansat, and Rohanpur have taken on a vibrant look.

Baneswar, the largest mango market in Rajshahi and known as the "mango capital" of Bangladesh, transforms into a bustling hub during mango season.

Masudur Rahman, President of the Rajshahi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said that the projected mango production this year is expected to generate a market value of around Taka 10,000 crore.

He added that Bagha Upazila is leading in mango production, contributing to one-third of Rajshahi's total yield. Last year, 36 tonnes of mangoes were exported from the upazila to 10 countries.

Anwarul Haque, President of the Rajshahi Agro Food Producer Society, said Rajshahi's mangoes have been reaching European and other international markets in recent years, opening avenues for foreign currency earnings.

He mentioned that the adoption of the fruit-bagging method has been on the rise, contributing to poison-free mango production by eliminating the need for pesticides and preventing fruit-fly infestation.

"Training on best agricultural practices has enabled many farmers and value-chain actors to tap into high-value export markets," he said, adding that while exports are nearly twice as profitable as local sales, they do require higher costs and greater care, along with modern technology.

Dr Shafiqul Islam, Principal Scientific Officer at the Regional Fruit Research Station, said mangoes have been cultivated on 26,150 hectares of land in Rajshahi and Chapainawabganj this year. In Naogaon, 12,671 hectares have been brought under mango cultivation, and another 4,823 hectares in Natore.

Prof Farid Uddin Khan of the Department of Economics at Rajshahi University noted that mango has become a major component of the agricultural economy after rice and potato.

He, however, emphasized the need for exploring additional export avenues, stating, "Although the region produces a significant quantity of mangoes annually, only a small portion is exported. There is urgent need to expand our access to foreign markets."