United News of Bangladesh

Farmers in Faridpur are expecting a good harvest of quality jute this season, but rising production costs and uncertainty over market prices have raised concerns about whether they will be able to make a reasonable profit. Faridpur is one of Bangladesh’s major jute-producing districts, and this year farmers have cultivated the crop on more land than the target set by the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE). Favourable weather, adequate rainfall and sufficient water in canals and beels during the harvesting period have contributed to good yields and improved colour and quality of the golden fibre, according to the DAE. It expects around 196,000 tonnes of jute to be produced in the district this season. Jute is currently selling for Tk 4,000 to Tk 4,200 per maund at markets, including Kanaipur, Nalermor, Talma, Kadirdi, Satoir and Boroga, depending on its variety and quality. At the current market price, the total value of this season’s jute could exceed Tk 2,000 crore, according to the DAE. But farmers say the rising cost of fertiliser, seed, labour and other inputs has made it increasingly difficult for them to earn a reasonable return. According to DAE sources, the target for jute cultivation in Faridpur this season was 87,328 hectares. However, farmers cultivated the crop on around 87,400 hectares – about 72 hectares more than the target. Faridpur DAE Deputy Director Md Shahaduzzaman said the weather had been particularly favourable for jute cultivation this year. “Especially during the harvesting period, there was sufficient water in the canals and beels, which helped ensure good colour and quality of the fibre,” he said, adding that they expect around 196,000 tonnes of jute to be produced in Faridpur this season. However, the good harvest has not completely eased farmers’ concerns.