Gazipur, known as the capital of Bangladesh’s national fruit jackfruit, has witnessed a bumper production this year as well. Due to its taste, aroma, and superior quality, Gazipur’s jackfruit has gained immense popularity not only in the domestic market but also abroad. Currently, jackfruits from Gazipur are being commercially exported to at least 15 countries around the world, including the Middle East. The jackfruit of Sreepur in Gazipur has received Geographical Indication (GI) recognition. As a result, the identity and demand for Gazipur’s jackfruit in the international market have increased further. As part of the district administration’s initiative to brand...
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Gazipur, known as the capital of Bangladesh’s national fruit jackfruit, has witnessed a bumper production this year as well. Due to its taste, aroma, and superior quality, Gazipur’s jackfruit has gained immense popularity not only in the domestic market but also abroad. Currently, jackfruits from Gazipur are being commercially exported to at least 15 countries around the world, including the Middle East.
The jackfruit of Sreepur in Gazipur has received Geographical Indication (GI) recognition. As a result, the identity and demand for Gazipur’s jackfruit in the international market have increased further. As part of the district administration’s initiative to brand Sreepur as a jackfruit hub, a giant jackfruit sculpture has been built on the premises of the উপজেলা administration. Its official slogan is: “Green and serene Sreepur, filled with sweet jackfruits.”
According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), jackfruit cultivation in Gazipur covers a total of 9,103 hectares of land, producing 249,792 metric tons of jackfruit. Among the upazilas, Sreepur, Kapasia, Kaliganj, Gazipur Sadar, and Kaliakair have the highest cultivation.
During the season, major jackfruit markets flourish in Sreepur Upazila, including Jaina Bazar, Seedstore, Mawna Chowrasta, Bagher Bazar, Baniarchala, Bhabanipur, and Rajabari Bazar. Thousands of jackfruits are sold daily in these markets. Wholesalers from different districts across the country come to purchase truckloads of jackfruits, which are transported to the capital and other regions. In addition, large quantities are exported abroad through airports.
Local trader Md. Babul Hossain said that jackfruits from Sreepur are regularly exported to 15 countries, including those in the Middle East. However, due to the lack of modern cold storage facilities, a significant amount of jackfruit is wasted every season.
Local farmers stated that jackfruit has become one of the most profitable cash crops in the upazila. However, due to inadequate storage facilities, the absence of dedicated markets, and limited access to easy loans, farmers are not receiving fair prices. As a result, they are often forced to sell their produce to middlemen at lower prices.
Agricultural experts say that Gazipur’s soil and climate are highly suitable for jackfruit cultivation. With stronger government support, modern preservation systems, and improved export infrastructure, Gazipur’s jackfruit could contribute even more significantly to the country’s economy.
