Mangoes Sweeten Trade Ties Between China and Bangladesh

Dhaka, Bangladesh – On May 28, 2025, a significant milestone was marked in the burgeoning trade relationship between China and Bangladesh as the first shipment of Bangladeshi mangoes arrived in Changsha, Hunan province, China. The event, celebrated at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, saw Bangladesh’s Ministry of Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin and Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen inspecting boxes of premium mangoes, symbolizing strengthened economic ties.

The export of 3 metric tons of mangoes by Meridian Agro, a subsidiary of the Meridian Group, marked Bangladesh’s entry into China’s vast fruit market. Bangladeshi mangoes, known for their smooth texture, high sugar content, and tropical fragrance, have already won over Chinese consumers despite their spotted appearance due to natural cultivation methods. Gui Jirong, a shopper in Changsha, praised their “incredibly smooth and sweet” flavor, expressing eagerness for their availability online.

The export became possible after Bangladesh secured approval from China’s General Administration of Customs in July 2024, following years of negotiations for a government-to-government protocol. Kohinoor Kamal, chairwoman of Meridian Group, expressed gratitude to both nations’ officials for facilitating the process. Changsha Customs provided end-to-end support, ensuring swift inspections and clearance. Chinese importers, like Hunan BabaiLi Holding Group, are optimistic about the mangoes’ potential, citing their unique flavor and chemical-free cultivation as key selling points. The initial shipment was distributed as samples to e-commerce platforms, supermarkets, and fresh produce chains, with wholesalers like Zou Qiuhong noting the fruit’s exceptional aroma and texture. Bangladesh, projected to produce 2.7 million tons of mangoes in 2025, plans to export 5,000 tons, with China offering significant growth potential. Ambassador Yao highlighted that this trade not only boosts bilateral economic cooperation but also enhances consumer choices in China and drives industrial upgrades in Bangladesh’s mango sector. However, Bangladeshi exporters face competition from countries like Thailand and Vietnam. To succeed, exporters like Razia Sultana of Global Trade Link emphasize quality control, modern packaging, and compliance with China’s strict phytosanitary standards. Looking ahead, Bangladesh aims to export guavas and jackfruits to China, with market access reviews already underway. This milestone, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of China-Bangladesh diplomatic ties, underscores the deepening economic partnership, with China as Bangladesh’s largest trading partner for 15 years. The adoption of Chinese bagging technology in Bangladesh’s “Mango Capital,” Chapai Nawabganj, further highlights the mutual benefits of this collaboration.