The betel nut grown in the Ukhiya-Teknaf region of Cox’s Bazar is no longer limited to local markets – it is now reaching buyers across the country.
Among these, the Sonarpara Betel Nut Market in Teknaf has earned widespread recognition, with daily transactions worth millions of taka.
Wholesalers from different parts of Bangladesh flock to Sonarpara to purchase high-quality betel nuts. This region’s produce is highly sought after due to its superior quality and attractive size.
Local farmer Nazem Uddin shared that he recently sold 36 pon (traditional measurement) of betel nuts from his own orchard at prices ranging between Tk 400 and Tk 600 per pon, depending on size. This sale brought him a handsome profit.
“The soil and climate here are ideal for betel nut cultivation, which is why we get such a high yield,” he said.
Many growers in the region are becoming financially independent through betel nut farming. However, farmers are calling for government support and training to boost production. They believe that modernizing market management could further strengthen the sector.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Hussain Shetu
