Fruit imports increased by 6%

In Bangladeh, local fruit production has increased by 10-12% and at the same time fruit imports have increased by 6%. Change in eating habits and better access to imported fruit throughout the country.

 

 

 

According to NBR (National Board of Revenue) and Bangladesh Bank, the Covid-19 pandemic had a negligible impact on fruit imports during the 2019-20 fiscal year. The country imported fruit worth 25.5 million BDT (301,576 USD) during the 2019-20 fiscal period.

 

 

 

During the last fiscal year, 616,000 tonnes of fruit were imported. Of these, 77% were apples and oranges. Of the imported fruit, 94% came from China, India, South Africa, Egypt, Bhutan and Brazil. The rest was imported from the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Afghanistan and a few other countries.

 

 

 

Sales of imported fruits dominate the market in the period from September to January, when the supply of local fruits decreases. Apples are the most imported products, followed by oranges, pomegranates, grapes, pears and lime.

 

 

 

Overall, fruit imports have increased by 6% over the past 5 years, while local fruit production has increased by 10-12%. Less than 10 years ago, NBR (National Board of Revenue) considered apples, oranges and pears to be luxury items due to their importation. These products were taxed up to 89% of the price of the fruit upon importation. But purchasing power has increased and eating habits have changed, leading to an increase in demand for fruit.