According to Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) Director General Mohammad Mohsin, farmers from Satkhira have struck a deal with European mango importers that will enable them to export a large quantity of mangoes at a fair price.
The agriculturist also said Satkhira has the best environmental factors in the country to support healthy, rapid mango growth.
Last year, the deal between Satkhira farmers and European importers did not work out, but this year they managed to achieve the lucrative goal.
“If mangoes are exported to Europe, the price of mangoes here will increase and farmers will make a greater profit,” Mohsin added.
Initially, mangoes will be exported to European Union countries such as Italy, France, Germany, United Kingdom, and Spain. Later, the mangoes will be available at chain shops in other countries.
Director General Mohammad Mohsin speaking to reporters at a mango orchard in Satkhira Md Asaduzzaman Sardar/Dhaka Tribune
Agriculturists Dr Md Azhar Ali and Abdul Mannan were present during this address, among others.
Mango farmer Jahangir, one of the farmers who will be exporting mangoes this year, said: “It is good to see fresh, unadulterated mangoes being exported abroad. District DAE and Non-Government Organization Uttaran have helped me greatly. I have had a bumper crop, and we are getting a good price for our produce. The mangoes we sell for Tk2,200 locally, we are exporting for Tk3,200.
Solidaridad Country Manager Selim Reza said: “There is no better alternative to export for farmers.”
Satkhira district DAE Deputy Director Abdul Mannan said: “For the last three years, we have been exporting mangoes. 200 metric tons of our finest Amrapali, Langra, and Himsagar mangoes will be exported to various countries in the EU.
“We will start with Himsagar mangoes, and later follow up with Langra and Amrapalis. 14 business establishments will be exporting mangoes this year,” he added.