Winter vegetables grown by farmers in Srinagar and Sirajdikhan upazilas of Munshiganj are now reaching European markets on a regular basis. Cauliflower, cabbage, bottle gourd, pointed gourd, yard-long beans, bitter gourd, and several varieties of leafy greens make up the bulk of the shipments.
Contract farming gains ground
Export companies are increasingly entering contract-farming arrangements with local growers. With supervision from agricultural extension officers, farmers must meet strict quality controls, limits on pesticide use, and requirements to cultivate specific varieties. Without that framework, the export opportunity would have been out of reach. Thousands of farmers are now part of the system.
The Padma Bridge effect
What once took seven to eight hours by ferry now takes three to four by road, including delivery to Dhaka's Karwan Bazar wholesale market. The shorter journey keeps produce fresher and preserves export-grade quality. Farmers earn fairer prices, and buyers gain a more reliable supply chain.
Opportunities and cautions
Even as commercial exports succeed, agronomists urge caution: without careful management of soil health, water use, and pesticide application, the boom may be hard to sustain over the long term. Adoption of organic and modern farming methods, along with expanded cold-storage and refrigerated-transport access for smallholders, will be key.
