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Bangladesh is a small, densely populated country in South Asia that has long been associated with poverty and political unrest. However, over the last few years, a new phenomenon has been taking place in the country known as “mango mania.” Bangladesh is fast becoming a major exporter of mangoes, and this is not only earning the country valuable foreign exchange, it is also putting Bangladesh on the map as a major player in the global food market.
Mango is the national fruit of Bangladesh, and it is grown in almost every district of the country. However, until recently, the majority of the mangoes produced in Bangladesh were consumed domestically, with limited export opportunities. But over the last decade or so, the government has introduced policies and infrastructure to encourage mango cultivation and export, and this has paid off handsomely.
According to the Department of Agricultural Marketing in Bangladesh, the country exported 194,000 metric tons of mangoes in the 2019-2020 fiscal year, up from just 79,000 metric tons in 2015-2016. The export value of mangoes has also been on the rise, with the country earning $139.42 million from mango exports in 2019-2020, up from $65.07 million in 2015-2016.
The demand for Bangladeshi mangoes is not limited to neighboring countries like India and Pakistan. Mangoes from Bangladesh are finding a market in the Middle East, Europe, and even in the United States. The fruit’s popularity can be attributed to its unique flavor, texture, and aroma. The mangoes grown in Bangladesh are typically smaller in size but have a sweeter taste and more vibrant color compared to other varieties.
The mango boom has also been a boon for Bangladeshi farmers, who have traditionally struggled to earn a decent income from agriculture. Mango cultivation has become a profitable business, and many farmers have started to specialize in mango production, utilizing modern technologies and techniques to increase their yields.
The government of Bangladesh has been instrumental in promoting mango cultivation and export. It has set up several training centers to educate farmers on modern techniques of mango cultivation and pest management. The government has also provided subsidies for the installation of drip irrigation systems, which have helped farmers conserve water and increase their yields.
The success of the mango industry in Bangladesh is a testament to the country’s potential as an agricultural powerhouse. Bangladesh has a favorable climate and fertile soil for the cultivation of a wide variety of crops, and the country has the potential to become a major food exporter in the future.
However, there are challenges that need to be addressed to sustain the momentum of the mango boom. The quality of mangoes needs to be maintained to keep up with the competition and ensure the safety of consumers. The government needs to provide better market linkages and logistical support to farmers to ensure that their produce reaches the export market in a timely and cost-effective manner.
In conclusion, the mango boom in Bangladesh is not only a story of successful agricultural entrepreneurship but also an opportunity to showcase the country’s capabilities to the world. This export boom is a step towards putting Bangladesh on the map as a leading food exporter in the global market. With the right policies and support, Bangladesh can continue to build on its success in the mango industry and achieve its potential in other agricultural sectors as well.
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