For years, agricultural produce from Sylhet enjoyed massive popularity across expatriate-heavy neighborhoods in the United Kingdom, including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Luton, Oldham, Newham, and Cardiff. However, following the detection of the 'Citrus Canker' bacteria in 2007 and the suspension of direct Biman flights, Sylhet's lucrative agricultural export trade to Europe ground to a halt.
Breaking a nearly 20-year hiatus, the Ministry of Agriculture has initiated steps to construct a dedicated packaging house and cold storage facility near the Osmani International Airport, following an official Do Letter (Demi-Official Letter) issued by Commerce Minister Khondokar Abdul Muktadir. Construction is slated to commence within the current year, paving the way for Sylhet to re-enter the European agro-export market.
The Bottleneck and Historical Decline
Although a cargo complex was previously built at Osmani International Airport, the absence of an approved packaging house and cold storage meant exporters had to haul perishable goods all the way to Dhaka’s Shyampur packing facility for quality clearance. The resulting transit delays, high transport costs, and risk of spoilage eventually forced local traders to abandon export operations.
Products Ready for Global Markets
According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) and local traders, the new facility will unlock the export potential of unique regional crops, including Goal-gadda beans, Naga chili, Khasia betel leaf, local citrus varieties such as Jara lemon, Ada lemon, Satkara, local oranges, Malta, watermelons, and various indigenous vegetables and tubers. These exotic agricultural items boast high demand among European consumers.
Official Outlook
Md. Shamsuzzaman, Deputy Director of DAE Sylhet, noted, "Establishing local storage, packaging, and export linkages will ensure fair prices for farmers, substantially boosting regional agricultural production."
Osmani International Airport Director Hafiz Ahmed added, "Except for the specialized packaging house, the airport already possesses the logistical foundation required for cargo handling. Once completed, this facility will herald a new era of direct international shipping from Sylhet."
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