Marketing pattern of some multipurpose tree species production in Bangladesh.
Ahmed M. R., Islam A.
Author Affiliation: Institute of Forestry, Chittagong University, Chittagong, Bangladesh.
Bangladesh Journal of Forest Science 24 : 41-48
Abstract : Marketing systems were investigated for some multipurpose tree species (MPTS) products in 4 districts of Bangladesh. The species investigated were trees such as mango (Mangifera indica), jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), jam (Eugenia), coconut (Cocos nucifera) and betel nut (Areca catechu), which are fruit/nut yielding, as well as being grown for other products (timber, shade etc.). Data were collected by stratifying the growers according to land holding category (landless, marginal, small, medium and large) and interviewing 8 growers in each category. Marketing of MPTS products was found in all 5 categories, but the magnitude of marketable products varied among the sites and farm categories. The growers belonging to landless and large farm categories ranked top in selling their products. Involvement of intermediaries was found least in the lower farm categories. Retail price was 117% higher than the farmers' price and a major share of the profit (14.48%) went to the local assembly traders. The high transportation cost, and lack of storage and preservation facilities are some of the major problems in marketing of MPTS products.