Mandarin exporters in Samdrupjongkhar are embracing a season of optimism, driven by enhanced fruit quality and favorable market prices. This renewed confidence comes as improved mandarins make their way to eager markets in Bangladesh, despite facing several logistical and financial hurdles.
Rinchen Dorji, 59, the proprietor of Ri-Yang Export based in Gomdar, brings over two decades of experience to the mandarin export industry. “Compared to previous years, this season looks favorable,” Dorji remarked as trucks laden with crates of vibrant mandarins departed for Bangladesh. “We have better quality mandarins and strong demand from Bangladesh, even during the early peak season.”
Typically commencing in mid-November, the current export season experienced a delay, starting only on December 10 due to local elections in Cooch Behar, India. Nevertheless, exporters have successfully dispatched 57 truckloads of mandarins to Bangladesh as of yesterday, signaling robust activity despite the late start.
Exporters emphasize the critical importance of proper packaging to maintain the high value of their oranges. Sherub Thuendrel Export offers Nu 1,400 per box for meel (large) mandarins and Nu 1,200 for keel (small) varieties. In Bangladesh, these prices translate to a floor price of USD 20 for meel and USD 18 for keel boxes this year, up from USD 15 and USD 12 respectively last year. Overall, the export value has seen a significant uptick, with prices rising from USD 12 and USD 15 to USD 18 and USD 20 per box for keel and meel mandarins.
Last year, exporters shipped a total of 2,432.7 metric tonnes of mandarins to Bangladesh. This year’s increased prices reflect both the improved quality of the fruit and the strong market demand. However, soaring transportation costs present a major challenge. “Transportation expenses range from Nu 48,000 to Nu 50,000 per truck, with drivers paying toll fees at seven stations between Samdrupjongkhar and Daramari in Bangladesh,” explained Sherub Zangpo, another key exporter.
Compounding the logistical challenges is the scarcity of adequate wooden crates from local sawmills, essential for meeting export standards. Despite these obstacles, optimism remains high among exporters. Ugyen Duba, a local exporter, expressed hope for the season’s success. “The orange quality is exceptional this year. I am hoping to export around 75 truckloads from my orchard,” Duba stated, noting that he has already shipped 16 truckloads.
Tashi Dawa, the export and import manager at NC, highlighted the strides made in quality and production. “While the quality and production have improved this year compared to last, packaging is still an important factor in the export and import business,” he said. Dawa also acknowledged the challenges faced by new players in navigating the necessary paperwork, which remains a critical component of the export process.
Despite these challenges, the spirit among Samdrupjongkhar’s mandarin exporters remains resilient. With continued efforts to enhance packaging standards and navigate financial constraints, the sector is poised for a promising season, reinforcing Bhutan’s role in the regional fruit export market.
