Naogaon eyes 30 billion taka mango trade as peak harvest hits local markets
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Naogaon, one of Bangladesh’s primary mango-producing hubs, is experiencing a surge in activity as its largest marketplace in Sapahar shifts from seasonal dormancy to peak harvest. With primary varieties now reaching the market, regional agricultural officials and traders project a bumper season with total commerce estimated to reach approximately 3 billion taka.
The market’s momentum follows a government-mandated harvesting schedule that began with Guti mangoes on May 22, followed by Gopalbhog on May 30. Himsagar, or Khirsapati, became available earlier this week, and the region’s geographically indicated (GI) product, the Nakfazli mango, officially hit the market this past Friday. The marketplace, stretching from the Sapahar Zero Point to the Model Mosque complex, currently hosts over 50 trading houses along the main transit routes, with farmers arriving from across the district to auction their harvest.
বিজ্ঞাপন
Despite the high volume of fruit, some farmers have expressed dissatisfaction regarding market prices and weight standards. Growers, such as those from Patnitala and Porsha, noted that prices for varieties like Nakfazli and Himsagar are trending lower than the previous year. Furthermore, a contentious practice known as “dholta”—where traders require 48 kilograms to constitute a “maund”—has drawn criticism from producers who argue it significantly diminishes their profit margins.
Kartik Saha, president of the local Aratdar (Wholesalers) Association, defended the practice, stating that the additional weight accounts for natural spoilage and logistical losses during transit. He noted that the market currently handles between 400 and 500 maunds daily but expects this volume to surge to 20,000 to 30,000 maunds once the popular Langra and Amrapali varieties arrive.
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Government officials are monitoring the situation to ensure compliance with standardized weights. Sapahar Upazila Executive Officer Romana Riaz confirmed that a circular has been issued mandating that 40 kilograms equal one maund. She emphasized that administrative teams will conduct regular inspections to address complaints and enforce fair trading practices.
According to the Department of Agricultural Extension, Naogaon has 30,310 hectares of land dedicated to mango cultivation this year, with an official production target of over 387,000 tons. Humayra Mondal, deputy director of the department, noted that favorable weather conditions, characterized by minimal pest infestation and storm damage, suggest that production could exceed initial projections. Alongside domestic supply, the district is aiming to export 200 tons of fruit to international markets. As the season progresses, the harvest schedule will continue with the introduction of Langra and Haribhanga varieties on June 10, followed by Amrapali, Fazli, and various late-season cultivars through July.
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