For the first time in Mirsarai of Chattogram, Indonesian avocados have been successfully cultivated in the hills, marking a new milestone for Bangladesh’s agriculture. Young agro-entrepreneur and tree enthusiast Md. Omar Sharif has achieved full success in his experimental farming, proving that the country’s climate is suitable for large-scale avocado production.
This year, the harvest has been particularly fruitful. Sharif is selling avocados from his orchard at Tk 800 per kilogram, with demand already strong in the local market. He said he plans to expand cultivation significantly in the coming years.
Sharif brought 10 avocado saplings from Indonesia and planted them at his Johra Agro Farms and Nursery. With regular care and favorable conditions, the trees began bearing fruit within two years. So far, he has collected over 500 kilograms of avocados. The success has shown that the fruit can be commercially viable in Bangladesh’s climate.
He also planted a Mexican variety of avocado saplings, which he believes can meet local demand economically. Avocados, known for their creamy texture and light sweetness, are rich in nutrients but low in sugar, making them especially beneficial for diabetes patients. Each fruit weighs between 400 and 800 grams, and the flesh can be eaten raw, in salads, or with bread, and is considered a healthy substitute due to the absence of saturated fats.
With growing demand in the local market, Sharif believes avocados hold immense commercial potential. Alongside cultivating avocados, he also plans to market Thai avocado saplings, which could encourage other farmers to take up cultivation, further boosting agricultural diversity and farmers’ income.
His initiatives are not limited to avocados. He has also successfully planted kiwi, blueberry, blackberry, malta, lemon, orange, and coffee, including both local and exotic fruits. Such diversified farming ventures are opening new opportunities for Bangladesh’s agricultural sector.
“Seeing the success of avocado farming, many others have shown interest in starting cultivation,” Sharif said. “If entrepreneurs expand the farming of exotic fruits, it will help meet the nation’s nutritional needs while creating new income opportunities for farmers. I am currently selling avocados at Tk 800 per kg, and most of the sales happen online.”
Mirsarai Upazila Agriculture Officer Protap Chandra Roy praised the initiative, describing Sharif as a passionate entrepreneur who has pioneered avocado farming in the region. “His orchard produces large, healthy fruits,” Roy said. “In addition to avocados, he has cultivated peaches, Thai sapodillas, and other fruits. His efforts are truly inspiring for young entrepreneurs.”
