Green chili production surges in central Bangladesh

Manikganj, a district in central Bangladesh, is experiencing a strong green chili harvest this season. Farmers across the region report healthy yields and favorable prices, which are boosting morale and bringing economic relief to local communities.

Chili harvesting is currently in full swing, with large volumes arriving at local markets. At retail, green chili is selling for BDT 50–60 (USD 0.46–0.55) per kilogram, while wholesale prices range from BDT 40–45 (USD 0.36–0.41) per kilogram.

Farmers from Ghior and Shibalaya upazilas bring their chili to Banangail and Uthuli markets, while growers from Harirampur sell at Jhitka, Bathoimuri, Balla, and Sarupai bazaars. These hubs are attracting many traders and transporters from across the country.

According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), green chili is the second most important cash crop in Ghior, Shibalaya, and Harirampur — second only to onions. The favorable soil and climate in these upazilas make the area highly suitable for chili cultivation.

This season, the DAE set a cultivation target of 3,717 hectares, aiming for 3,700 metric tons of production. However, the target was exceeded, with chili planted on 3,825 hectares — 108 hectares more than forecasted.

Dr. Robia Noor Ahmed, Deputy Director of DAE, confirmed that the soils in Harirampur, Shibalaya, and Ghior are ideal for green chili cultivation. She emphasized that Manikganj’s chili quality surpasses that of other districts, which explains its strong domestic and export demand.

source: bssnews.net

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