Watermelon production in Barisal has reached unprecedented levels this year, with farmers in the region doubling their acreage of cultivation over the past five years.
Despite the record harvest, farmers and traders are facing significant losses due to a combination of unfavorable weather conditions, rising transport costs, and a lack of demand in the market.
In the 2025-26 fiscal year, watermelon cultivation in the Barisal division expanded to 70,362 hectares, a significant jump from 46,451 hectares in 2021-22. This surge in production has led to an oversupply in local markets, which, combined with poor pricing, has left many farmers struggling to break even.
The price struggle
While the production of watermelons this year has been the highest on record, the prices farmers are able to fetch for their produce have dropped significantly. At the start of the season, the price for 100 watermelons ranged between Tk20,000 and 35,000, depending on size. However, as the harvest flooded the market, prices plummeted to as low as Tk5,000 to 7,000 per 100 melons, creating an economic strain on farmers and traders alike.
“Although our production has been good, there are no buyers. The high production has driven prices down,” said Barak Bhuiyan, a farmer from Bhola who cultivated watermelon on 3.5 acres of land at an expense of Tk7 lakh. “I took loans to invest in my watermelon farm, and now I’m worried about repaying the debts.”
Another farmer, Shobuj Mia, echoed similar frustrations. “We have produced a large quantity, but we can barely cover our costs. We spent around Tk17 lakh, but we will only be able to sell for about Tk12 to 13 lakh.”
Weather woes and transport woes
Adding to the challenges, the farmers have had to contend with unexpected weather patterns. Heavy rains and hailstorms after Eid destroyed a significant portion of their crops. Suruj Ali, a farmer who had invested Tk9.5 lakh in his watermelon farm, expressed his disappointment. “The storms and rains destroyed much of my crop, and now I cannot even cover the cost of renting a truck to transport my melons.”
In addition to weather challenges, the fuel crisis has increased transport costs. As a result, farmers and traders are paying higher prices for transportation, which has further squeezed their margins. “Fuel prices have skyrocketed, and truck rental costs have gone up,” said Shaheedul, a watermelon trader from Mymensingh. “Even though the harvest is good, we are making losses because of increased transportation expenses and lower prices.”
Barisal’s role in national watermelon production
Barisal has long been known for its watermelon cultivation, but this year, the region’s output is particularly notable. The char areas of Barisal, including parts of Bhola and Patuakhali, have seen a surge in watermelon farming, contributing significantly to the national supply. The agriculture department estimates that around 20 lakh tonnes of watermelon have been produced in Barisal so far, with expectations that production will continue to rise.
The Barisal division’s six districts initially targeted 62,626 hectares for watermelon cultivation this season, but the total acreage has exceeded that target, reaching 70,362 hectares by mid-season, marking an increase of 12% above the target.
Challenges for traders and wholesalers
Traders in Barisal’s markets are also facing difficulties due to the falling prices. Khaja Mohammad Nazrul Islam, a wholesaler at Barisal’s Barur Ghat, noted that prices have dropped drastically. “We were initially selling watermelons for Tk30,000 to 35,000 per 100 pieces, but now we are only able to sell for Tk5,000 to 7,000 per 100. The drop in prices, combined with higher transportation costs, has made it difficult for both farmers and wholesalers to make a profit.”
In response to the growing crisis, the Barisal Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE) is working to find new ways to help farmers secure better prices. Mohammad Nazrul Islam Sikder, the department’s additional director, said, “We are exploring direct marketing strategies and alternative transportation routes to reduce costs and increase the profit margins for farmers.”
Looking ahead
While the future remains uncertain for many watermelon farmers in Barisal, there is hope that the government’s intervention will help alleviate some of the challenges. As the season progresses, the agriculture department is focusing on better connecting farmers directly with consumers, reducing the role of middlemen, and streamlining the transportation process.
Despite the current market struggles, Barisal’s watermelon industry is poised for further growth in the coming years, with hopes that improved infrastructure and marketing strategies will lead to better returns for local farmers. The region’s success in watermelon cultivation highlights its potential as a key player in the country’s agricultural landscape.
