Taro stem exports generate robust forex earnings

CUMILLA, Sept 17 (BSS): The export of taro stems from Cumilla's Barura Upazila is emerging as a promising source of foreign currency earnings, with shipments reaching international markets including the Middle East, the United States, the United Kingdom and several European countries.
Thanks to commercial-scale farming and streamlined supply chains, the upazila is exporting over 80 tonnes of taro stems daily. This surge in exports is translating into substantial foreign currency inflows, with monthly earnings estimated between USD 250,000 and 300,000 alongside generating jobs locally.
Local taro stem farmer Abdul Matin said that they no longer have to go to the market themselves. "More than fifty traders in the upazila buy thick stems at Taka 45-50 per kilogram while thin stems at Tk 25-30, which are then transported to Dhaka and Chattogram by truck in the evening," he said.
He added, "From there, agencies purchase the selected taro stems for export abroad, while the rest are sold in local markets."
Local exporters said the global appetite for Bangladeshi taro stems is growing steadily, driven by diaspora communities and health-conscious consumers abroad.