When it comes to growing pineapples, Rangamati’s favorable weather ensures that thousands of tons of the fruit are produced there alone. Historically, pineapples are cultivated between June and July. But for the last seven years, the fruit is being cultivated in January and February as well.
The reason behind this early cultivation through the off-seasons is the introduction of added hormones to the process. Tapan Kumar Paul, deputy director of Department of Agriculture Extension, said, "Pineapple is cultivated across 10 upazilas of Rangamati, Naniachar being the most popular. Over 2,130 hectares in Rangamati is cultivated for pineapple, bearing a total production of 55,913 tons."
A local trader said: "We purchase each pineapple for Tk 13-15 and sell them at Tk 20-25. We make very little profit due to transportation cost. Besides, we have to pay Tk 500 for every truck, along with Tk 300 toll charge." A wholesale seasonal fruits trader said prices are higher now as the pineapple season hasn't started yet, so they can make a little more profit.
[ Tk 1= €0.10 ]
