Pirojpur's Panchpara Bazar emerges as 'Kingdom of Betel Nut'

Once known for its paddy and betel leaf cultivation, the southern coastal district of Pirojpur has now carved out a distinct identity as a major hub for betel nut production, with Panchpara Bazar at its epicentre.

Dubbed locally as the "Kingdom of Betel Nut", Panchpara Bazar in Pirojpur Sadar upazila has become the district's most prominent trading ground for the crop, drawing buyers and sellers from across the region.

Held twice weekly, on Mondays and Thursdays, the market sees transactions exceeding Tk1 crore on each trading day. 

Its riverside location ensures smooth transportation, while the high quality of betel nuts and a vibrant trading atmosphere make it the preferred destination for wholesalers and growers alike.

On market days, the area transforms into a bustling sea of yellow as traders arrive by boat, trawler, van, three-wheeler, and motorcycle, carrying sacks and baskets brimming with betel nuts. 

The air hums with bargaining as hundreds of labourers sort, count, and bag the nuts for distribution.

After meeting local demand, the nuts are dispatched wholesale to nearly 20 districts, including Dhaka, Chattogram, Rangpur, Saidpur, Dinajpur, Natore and Gaibandha.

This season, a kuri (210 pieces) of betel nut is selling for Tk300 to Tk500, depending on quality, lower than last year's rates. However, traders and growers remain optimistic, citing higher yields as a buffer against price drops.

Deputy Director of the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) in Pirojpur, Saumitra Sarkar, said betel nut cultivation has expanded to about 4,600 hectares this year, with projected output reaching 53,205 metric tonnes worth Tk425 crore.

"As the weather has been favourable, production is high this season, though the price is comparatively low. We hope farmers can make up for the lower price through increased yield," he added.