Rajshahi, Jan 21 (V7N) - Tomato production across the country is heavily concentrated in Rajshahi, with Godagari Upazila producing the highest yield. Known as the "Kingdom of Tomatoes," Godagari has experienced a "silent revolution" in tomato cultivation over the past seven years. However, fluctuating prices and inconsistent yields continue to challenge farmers.

According to the Rajshahi Department of Agricultural Extension, tomato cultivation trends in Godagari are as follows:

2018-19: 2,650 hectares cultivated; 58,595 metric tons produced.

2019-20: 2,150 hectares cultivated; 49,525 metric tons produced.

2022-23: 3,015 hectares cultivated; 87,435 metric tons produced.

2024-25: 2,670 hectares cultivated; target production is 74,760 metric tons.

If the average price per kilogram is 15 taka, this year's projected revenue is 112.14 crore taka, with 8,000 farmers directly engaged in cultivation.Naimul Islam, a farmer from Helipad area, stated, “Tomato cultivation is not as widespread as before, but what is grown is sold directly from the field, simplifying the process for farmers.”
Bibhuti Bhushan from Go-gram added, “Last year, poor prices discouraged me from cultivating extensively. This year, though, I received better prices.”
Farmer Abdul Hadi remarked, “The yield is lower this year, but prices are satisfactory, which offsets the reduced output.”Traders, such as Shamsul Alam Babu, highlighted the dynamic market for Godagari tomatoes, which are distributed nationwide, including Dhaka, Chittagong, Sylhet, and Comilla. Babu noted, “Good prices this season have been offset by increased costs, causing some traders to face losses.”Maryam Ahmed, Upazila Agriculture Officer, said, “Tomatoes are cultivated in both summer and winter. Summer tomatoes, in particular, fetch higher prices, ranging from 15 to 160 taka per kilogram. The trade has also temporarily created jobs for 8,000 to 9,000 people.”

Godagari's tomato cultivation remains a vital part of its agricultural economy, but consistent market conditions are essential for maintaining growth and stability in the sector.

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