Bangladesh Set to Export Mangoes to China, Marking a New Chapter in Bilateral Trade

A Fruitful New Beginning for Bangladesh-China Relations

After six years of talks and anticipation, Bangladesh is finally ready to export its prized mangoes to China. The green light came last July when the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) approved the imports, the Ministry of Commerce confirmed. Shipments are expected to begin next summer.

The approval marks more than just a trade deal — it signals a growing partnership, with Bangladesh aiming to strengthen its agricultural exports to the world’s second-largest economy.

From Patience to Progress

Bangladesh first applied in 2019 to export mangoes, along with jackfruit and guava. But progress stalled, slowed further by the COVID-19 pandemic and lengthy regulatory processes.

Now, with mangoes cleared for export, the focus shifts to securing similar approvals for jackfruit and guava. Talks have also started around new products, including potatoes and fragrant rice, though those discussions are still in early stages.

Growing Confidence in Agricultural Trade

At a press briefing on 20 March, Shafiqul Alam, press secretary to the chief adviser, said China has shown strong interest in buying Bangladeshi mangoes, jackfruits, and guavas. Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen recently conveyed this enthusiasm during a meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus in Dhaka.

“This will open a new horizon for Bangladeshi exports to China,” Alam said, reflecting growing optimism that the country’s fresh produce will find a firm footing in Chinese markets.

Sweet Demand and Steady Investment

Mamun Mridha, former general secretary of the Bangladesh-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCCI), noted that Chinese consumers enjoy the taste of Bangladeshi mangoes and jackfruit. He believes exports will steadily grow once the first shipments roll out, providing a major boost to local fruit production.

Rajshahi orchards. Image for Illustration Purposes Only

Preparations are already underway. Last year, a group of Chinese business representatives toured Bangladesh, visiting mango orchards in Rajshahi and advising growers on packaging and quality standards. Plans are also in motion to set up a mango testing laboratory in Bangladesh, supported by Chinese funding, to ensure the fruits meet export requirements.

Yunus Promises Fresh Mangoes for Xi Jinping

According to BDNews24, Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus has announced he will personally send a basket of fresh mangoes to Chinese President Xi Jinping, highlighting the growing agricultural trade between Bangladesh and China.

During a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen at the State Guest House Jamuna on Sunday, Yunus emphasised the urgency of implementing agreements discussed during his recent visit to China.

“Our top priority now is to move forward with the plans we discussed during the China visit. We want to make sure momentum is not lost,” he said.

The two sides pledged quick action on a series of initiatives, including the development of Mongla and Anowara economic zones, the procurement of new vessels, and healthcare collaborations such as a new 1,000-bed hospital and specialised burn unit in Chattogram. Plans to launch a Kunming–Chattogram direct flight and a mini investment summit for Chinese investors were also discussed.

Challenges Remain, but Hopes Are High

While mangoes are ready to make their debut in China, other agricultural products still face hurdles. Chinese buyers raised concerns about the cost and quality of Bangladeshi potatoes, and inconsistent export policies continue to hamper efforts to send fragrant rice abroad.

Nevertheless, officials remain upbeat. “The Chinese team expressed strong appreciation for our fruits,” said Anwar Hossain, Vice Chairman of the Export Promotion Bureau. “We are working hard to expand our exports, and we’re hopeful for the future.”

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