The peak jackfruit season is now underway, bringing vibrant activity to seasonal fruit markets across Cox’s Bazar. The country’s national fruit has become a major attraction for buyers, with roadside stalls and temporary markets witnessing brisk sales.
Traders are selling rows of jackfruits of various sizes along the pavement near the lane leading to Peshkarpara from the city’s Boro Bazar. Similar makeshift stalls have also sprung up at several key locations across the town.
Traders said that most of the jackfruits currently on sale are sourced from the Eidgarh area of Ramu. The fruits are purchased at wholesale rates and transported to Cox’s Bazar city for retail sale. Depending on size and quality, each jackfruit is selling for between Tk 150 and Tk 400.
Munna, a jackfruit vendor in the Boro Bazar area, said that traders regularly bring the fruit from Eidgarh and that demand has remained strong throughout the season.
“We buy jackfruits from Eidgarh market at wholesale prices and bring them to Cox’s Bazar for sale. Demand is very good currently, and many customers are purchasing the fruit every day,” he said.
He added that both ripe and unripe jackfruits are available in the market. While some customers buy ripe fruit for immediate consumption, others prefer unripe jackfruit for cooking a variety of traditional dishes.
A visit to local markets showed a noticeable increase in customer turnout as the seasonal fruit became widely available. Vendors said jackfruit continues to enjoy growing popularity because of its taste and nutritional value. They added that a good harvest this year has helped keep prices relatively affordable for consumers.
Jackfruits produced in the hilly agricultural region of Eidgarh are not only meeting local demand but are also being supplied to Cox’s Bazar town and neighbouring areas. As a result, the seasonal trade has brought increased business activity for farmers, wholesalers, and retailers alike.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Abdu Rashid Manik
