Strong prices drive ginger cultivation surge in northern Bangladesh

Farmers in the Rangpur region of Bangladesh are actively sowing ginger this season, aiming to produce 52,675 tonnes from 3,954 hectares of land during the current Kharif-1 season (the early part of the Kharif cropping cycle in South Asia). So far, ginger has been planted on 2,291 hectares — nearly 58% of the seasonal target — across Rangpur, Gaibandha, Kurigram, Lalmonirhat, and Nilphamari.

The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) is supporting farmers through training and access to quality seeds, along with agri-loans from commercial banks. These efforts aim to boost the cultivation of ginger and other spice crops while promoting crop diversification and the use of modern techniques.

Many farmers are using not only their regular fields but also homesteads and unused land to grow ginger, encouraged by strong prices and good yields in recent years. Farmers report current selling prices of Taka 120 to 125 per kilogram, while retail prices range between Taka 120 and 150 in local markets.

The government is also promoting cultivation on fallow lands to meet rising domestic demand and reduce dependency on imported spices. Officials believe this strategy will lead to greater self-sufficiency in spice production.

Farmers across the region have expressed satisfaction with both the market and the support received from authorities. The ongoing expansion is expected to further increase yields and benefit local economies.

According to DAE officials, the positive response this season reflects the success of coordinated efforts between farmers and agricultural agencies. The hope is that this momentum will continue in future seasons, making ginger a profitable and sustainable crop in Rangpur.

source: bssnews.net

photo: barkandwhiskers.com