Rajshahi eyes Tk 56cr Litchi trade as Bombay variety floods markets

The famous fruit-growing district is witnessing one of its most productive seasons in recent years as orchards in all nine upazilas report higher yields and improved fruit quality.

According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), litchi cultivation covered 528 hectares of land this year, with a production target of 3,775 metric tonnes. Agricultural officials said favourable weather during the fruit development stage played a crucial role in ensuring healthy production despite an early spell of intense heat.

With the harvesting period of the local variety nearing completion, the larger and sweeter Bombay litchi has become the main attraction in both wholesale and retail markets. Traders said the variety is enjoying strong demand nationwide because of its attractive appearance, juicy texture and superior taste.

The bustling trade has prompted wholesalers from Dhaka and other districts to purchase fruits directly from orchards, creating a competitive market for growers.

Additional Deputy Director (Horticulture) of the DAE Papiya Rahman Mouri said the combination of favourable climatic conditions, proper orchard management and close monitoring by agricultural officials resulted in excellent fruit quality this season.

She said the current market trend indicates the possibility of around Tk 56 crore worth of litchi sales in Rajshahi, generating substantial economic benefits for growers and others involved in the value chain.

Local growers are also optimistic about their earnings.

Many orchard owners reported lower pest infestation compared to previous years, helping them produce high-quality fruits and secure satisfactory prices. They said buyers began contacting them even before harvesting started, reflecting strong market confidence.

Market observations revealed that Bombay litchi now dominates fruit stalls across Rajshahi city. Retail prices for quality fruits range between Tk 300 and Tk 350 per hundred, while wholesale activities continue to intensify.

Every day, truckloads of litchi are being transported from Rajshahi to different parts of the country to meet growing consumer demand.

However, growers are not entirely free from concerns. Agricultural officials said sudden fluctuations in temperature and humidity have caused fruit cracking in some orchards. Prolonged dry conditions followed by increased moisture levels affected a portion of immature fruits in several areas.

Deputy Director of the DAE Mohammad Nasir Uddin said farmers were advised to maintain regular irrigation and apply mulching around tree bases to preserve soil moisture and minimize fruit damage.

He expressed hope that stable weather conditions during the remaining harvesting period would ensure satisfactory production and profitability for growers.

Industry stakeholders believe the strong performance of the litchi sector is already contributing to local economic activities, benefiting orchard owners, traders, transport operators, commission agents and seasonal labourers.

As harvesting reaches its peak, optimism is growing across Rajshahi that the celebrated Bombay litchi will not only deliver handsome returns for farmers but also reinforce the district's reputation as one of the country's leading commercial fruit hub, reports BSS.