Rajshahi Sees Surge in Mango Exports Amid Improved Farming Techniques
Rajshahi, Bangladesh – The northern district of Rajshahi, long celebrated as the mango capital of Bangladesh, is witnessing a significant surge in mango exports this season, driven by the adoption of advanced farming techniques and improved post-harvest management. Local agricultural officials report that exports have increased by over 30% compared to the same period last year, with shipments reaching markets in Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) in Rajshahi, the region produced approximately 2.5 lakh metric tons of mangoes this year, a record high. This bumper harvest is attributed to favorable weather conditions and the widespread use of modern irrigation systems and pest control methods. Farmers have also benefited from training programs organized by the government and non-governmental organizations, focusing on organic farming and reducing chemical usage.
“We have been encouraging farmers to adopt scientific methods to improve both yield and quality,” said Md. Abdul Latif, a senior DAE official in Rajshahi. “The result is visible in the increased demand for Rajshahi mangoes in international markets, particularly for varieties like Himsagar, Langra, and Amrapali.”
One of the key factors driving this export boom is the establishment of dedicated mango processing and packaging centers in the district. These facilities, supported by the Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority and private investors, have enabled farmers to meet international standards for hygiene, grading, and packaging. The centers use cold storage and controlled atmosphere technology to extend the shelf life of mangoes, allowing them to be shipped over long distances without spoilage.
Local exporter Md. Rafiqul Islam, who runs a packaging unit in the Bagha upazila, noted that the quality of Rajshahi mangoes has improved significantly. “Our mangoes are now competing with those from India, Pakistan, and Thailand in terms of taste and appearance. We are receiving orders from buyers in the UK, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia,” he said. “This has brought better prices for our farmers, with some earning up to 30% more than last year.”
The surge in exports is also having a positive impact on the local economy. The mango industry employs thousands of workers in Rajshahi, from farm laborers to truck drivers and processing staff. Women, in particular, have found employment in packing houses, where they earn a steady income during the harvesting season from June to August.
However, challenges remain. Farmers and exporters have called for improved road infrastructure to reduce transportation time to ports, as well as easier access to credit to invest in modern equipment. Some have also expressed concerns about climate change, as erratic rainfall and rising temperatures could affect future harvests.
“We are seeing the benefits of technology, but we need more support from the government to sustain this growth,” said farmer Abdul Kader from Paba upazila. “If we can address these issues, Rajshahi can become a global hub for mango production.”
In response, the Bangladesh government has announced plans to upgrade the Rajshahi-Chattogram highway and establish a new cold storage facility in the region. The Ministry of Agriculture is also working with international partners to develop climate-resilient mango varieties.
For now, the mood in Rajshahi is one of optimism. As trucks loaded with crates of golden mangoes head toward Dhaka and beyond, the district is cementing its reputation not just as a source of sweet fruit, but as a model for agricultural innovation in Bangladesh.