Mangoes sweeten trade ties between China, Bangladesh

Fruitful future

Bangladeshi growers are now eyeing exports of guavas and jackfruits — fruits they have in abundance — to China.

Exporting to China involves several compliance steps, notably registering with the Plant Quarantine department, and registering on the General Administration of Customs of China's platform. After completing these procedures, the remaining export processes align closely with European Union standards.

Ambassador Yao said he is confident that the export of Bangladeshi mangoes is just the start, adding that China has already initiated market access reviews for Bangladeshi guava and jackfruit.

"We are discussing imports of raw animal hides from Bangladesh, and look forward to the export of hilsa (the national fish of Bangladesh) to China," he said.

"I am confident that in the near future, an increasing number of high-quality Bangladeshi agricultural products will be stocked on the shelves of Chinese supermarkets, bringing more tangible benefits to the peoples of both countries," Yao added.

Sultana, of GTL, agreed that the Chinese market presents a promising opportunity for Bangladeshi fruit exports, particularly mangoes, guavas, and jackfruits.

"China's growing appetite for exotic and tropical fruits aligns well with Bangladesh's strengths in producing flavorful, naturally ripened fruits," she said.

The recent openings for mango exports show positive diplomatic and trade relations, and a mutual interest in agricultural trade, Sultana said. "Overall, with strategic investment in quality and branding, Bangladesh can become a significant supplier of tropical fruits to China, tapping into a lucrative and growing market," she said.

The relationship goes both ways, as seen in the northwestern region of Chapai Nawabganj, about 300 kilometers from Dhaka.

Known as the "Mango Capital", the region is famous for its high-quality, chemical-free mangoes. In recent years, Chinese bagging technology, a safer alternative to chemical pesticides, has gained popularity among local growers.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Bangladesh. In recent years, bilateral economic cooperation has deepened significantly, with China serving as Bangladesh's largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years.

NK Sanchaya is a freelance journalist for China Daily.