Bangladesh: Heavy rains devastate Faridpur chilli crop, retail prices surge

• Rainfall damages nearly three-fourths of chilli fields in Madhukhali
• Supply shortage pushes retail green chilli prices to BDT 280-320/kg 

Continuous heavy rainfall has severely affected summer chilli cultivation in Faridpur district, particularly in Madhukhali upazila, where prolonged waterlogging has damaged a significant share of the standing crop. The widespread losses have reduced market arrivals, lifted retail prices, and raised concerns over achieving the district’s production target for the season.

Heavy rainfall causes widespread crop losses

Summer chilli was cultivated across 2,720 hectares in Madhukhali upazila during the current season. However, more than a week of persistent rainfall left most cultivated fields submerged, causing chilli plants to rot and resulting in extensive crop losses. According to local estimates, nearly 75% of chilli fields have been damaged, with the worst-affected areas concentrated in several unions across the upazila.

The impact has been particularly severe for growers who had already incurred higher production costs due to rising prices of seeds, fertilisers, and crop protection chemicals. Many farmers have been forced to clear their damaged fields after losing most of the standing crop, with concerns that they may not recover even half of their cultivation expenses. Agricultural authorities have started assessing the extent of the damage and are preparing lists of affected growers for phased compensation and government support.

Production outlook weakens as prices surge

Across Faridpur district, chilli cultivation covered 3,112 hectares this season with a production target of 5,706 tonnes. However, the extensive crop damage caused by continuous rainfall is expected to reduce output, making it difficult to achieve the planned production target.

The anticipated supply shortfall has already tightened market availability, pushing retail green chilli prices to BDT 280-320 per kg, depending on quality. Traders reported that reduced arrivals from rain-affected fields have significantly limited supplies, contributing to the sharp increase in prices.

Outlook

Persistent rainfall has significantly disrupted chilli production in Faridpur, reducing field availability and tightening market supplies. While higher prices are supporting market values, the heavy production losses have offset potential gains for growers. The pace of crop recovery, weather conditions, and government compensation measures will remain key factors influencing future production and price movements.