Malaysia, Bangladesh 'banana diplomacy'

After wheat, rice and corn, banana is the most produced fruit in the world.

That is, number 4. Asia-Pacific is the main center of banana production. Basically, India occupies a large part of the world art market. Banana market is growing day by day, as a result banana production is increasing. According to the World Food and Agriculture Organization, the total production of bananas around the world was 69 million tons in 2000, and it has increased to 116 million tons by 2020, with a value of 31 billion US dollars. Only 15% of this production is sold in the international market. In terms of nutrition, what is the demand - the price of bananas is more or less in the market of all countries. And keeping this demand in mind, India, China, Brazil and South Africa are pushing the international banana market. For example, in the tropical island of the Philippines, bananas are not only a favorite fruit of the local population, but also an important export product. Bananas connect its farmers with China, the country's largest export market. The results are supporting the efforts of livelihoods and farmers in the country to alleviate poverty and prosper under China-Philippines cooperation.

On the other hand, Malaysia is perfect for growing bananas. It has fertile soil, consistently warm temperatures and rain. In most places in the country, strong winds and extreme temperatures are rare. Planting bananas for export is different from planting for local consumption. Bananas are an important commercial fruit and a major export commodity in the tropics. The growing global demand for bananas has caused its harvested area to expand. However, the production of bananas in Malaysia has decreased, probably due to adverse environmental conditions and pests and diseases.

However, as a country with an agricultural economy, Bangladesh did not even make the slightest attempt to enter that market. But this time green bananas are being exported to Malaysia through Chittagong Sea port. About 4,500 kg of raw bananas will be shipped through the port on Friday. The exporting company has obtained the certificate from the plant pest control center for the export of this shipment on Thursday.

Green bananas are being exported to Malaysia through Chittagong seaport. About 4,500 kg of unripe bananas will be shipped through the port on Friday (March 31). The exporting company has obtained the certificate from the plant pest control center for the export of this shipment on Thursday.

Ripe bananas have been exported through Chittagong port before, but this is the first time that raw bananas have been exported. Syed Munirul Haque, pest control pathologist of Chittagong seaport's plant pest control center, confirmed this.

This raw banana is being exported by Sattar International of Chittagong. Exporter's representative Touhidul Islam said that these raw bananas were collected from Shibganj in Bogra. The export value of the shipment is about five thousand dollars.

According to Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) data, the last ripe banana export from Bangladesh was in 2016–17 fiscal year. The export value was 6 thousand 280 dollars. Earlier in 2012, about 20 thousand kg of ripe sea bananas were exported to Poland. In all, bananas worth $14,914 were exported in 2012-13.

Banana production is increasing in Bangladesh. According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), 826,000 tonnes of ripe bananas were produced in the fiscal year 2021–22. Five years ago in the fiscal year 2016-17, the production was eight lakh seven thousand tonnes.

The value of bananas in the world market is not low. According to market research firms, bananas were exported to the tune of $1,350 million in 2021. Ecuador, Philippines, Costa Rica and Colombia are the top exporting countries. And the United States, Germany, Russia, China and Belgium are the top importing countries.

After successful exports of several fruits and vegetables – including guava, watermelon, and tomato – via sea route, the first shipment of green bananas is now heading for Malaysia from the Chattogram Port, adding to the list of agricultural exports by sea.  

Towhidul Islam, manager of Sky-sea-land Shipping Line, clearing and forwarding (C&F) agent of Sattar International, told a local media on Friday that the ship carrying the consignment of bananas, valued at $6,000, will depart for Malaysia's Port Kelang in the afternoon. The consignment also has 17 tonnes of potatoes, he said. The price of the exported green bananas was estimated at over Tk151 per kg. This is the first time that green bananas have been exported through the Chattogram Port, according to the Plant Quarantine Station of the port.

Bananas are one of the most popular and widely consumed fruits in Bangladesh. The country is blessed with a tropical climate, which makes it an ideal place for the cultivation of bananas. Bananas are a staple food in many parts of the country, and they are used in a variety of dishes, including desserts, smoothies, and curries. In this article, we will explore the significance of bananas in Bangladesh and the different types of bananas grown in the country.

History and Importance of Bananas in Bangladesh

Bananas have been grown in Bangladesh for thousands of years, and they have played a significant role in the country's culture and economy. Bananas are an important crop for many farmers in Bangladesh, and they provide a source of income for millions of people.

Bananas are also an important source of nutrition for the people of Bangladesh. They are rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamins, making them a healthy and nutritious food choice. Bananas are also easy to digest, making them an ideal food for people of all ages.

Bananas are also used in many traditional medicines in Bangladesh. They are believed to have a number of health benefits, including the ability to reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and improve digestion.

Types of Bananas in Bangladesh

There are many different types of bananas grown in Bangladesh, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Some of the most popular varieties of bananas grown in Bangladesh include: Amrit, Kolikuttu, Sabri, Lal Kala, Rasthali.

Banana Cultivation in Bangladesh

Bananas are grown in many parts of Bangladesh, but they are most commonly cultivated in the southern and southeastern parts of the country. The cultivation of bananas in Bangladesh is a major source of income for many farmers, and it is an important part of the country's economy.

Bananas are usually grown in small farms or in backyard gardens, and they are harvested throughout the year. The cultivation of bananas in Bangladesh is usually done using traditional methods, and it involves a lot of manual labor.

The process of banana cultivation in Bangladesh usually begins with the planting of banana saplings. These saplings are planted in rows in the field, and they are watered regularly. Once the bananas are fully grown, they are harvested by cutting down the entire plant.

The harvested bananas are then sorted and packed into crates for transport to the market. Bananas are usually transported to the market on trucks, and they are sold to wholesalers who distribute them to retailers and consumers.

Banana Industry in Bangladesh

The banana industry in Bangladesh is a significant contributor to the country's economy. The industry employs millions of people, including farmers, laborers, and traders. Bananas are also a major export crop for Bangladesh, and they are exported to many countries around the world.

The banana industry in Bangladesh is largely dominated by small-scale farmers, who grow bananas on small farms or in backyard gardens. These farmers face many challenges, including limited access to markets, low productivity, and limited access to credit.

To address these challenges, the government of Bangladesh has implemented a number of policies and programs to support the concerned to the farmers, exporters.

Diversifying export basket, generating jobs

As Bangladesh moves out of the least developed country bracket, calls for diversifying the export basket, overly reliant on RMG goods, gets louder.

Stakeholders said banana and fruits could be potential export items. They identified lack of patronisation as one of the biggest hindrances to developing this sector.

They sought policy and funding support to create entrepreneurs, generate jobs, empower women in rural areas and boost forex earnings. But in order to export, it is necessary to develop a commercial garden first. Planned cultivation of this banana can be spread all over the country by making tissue culture seedlings. But there’s a long way to go.

Malaysia-Bangladesh banana cultivation

Bananas are certainly among the most popular fruits for growers and consumers in Malaysia.
Malaysia has a competitive edge in bananas over regional countries. To sustain its competitive position in the banana market, Malaysia should address the issues and challenges and overcome the weaknesses.  achieving these goals requires an intensive effort and interdisciplinary collaboration between policymakers, industry, growers, and scientists. In addition, continued investments and government supports are also crucial drivers in this realm. In summary, it is time for Malaysia and Bangladesh to adopt effective and sustainable strategic approaches to remain relevant and competitive in the global fruit exports. Bangladesh and Malaysia can work together in this regard.

Sent-in by: Mehjabin Bhanu

Mehjabin Bhanu is a Bangladeshi writer, columnist and commentator on international affairs, especially South Asian affairs. 

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