Chattogram, Bangladesh – Once considered a “luxury fruit” in Bangladesh, persimmon is now becoming increasingly available in local markets. Known for its sweet, juicy taste and smooth texture, akin to ripe papaya, persimmon has gained popularity in recent years. Previously available only in high-end markets, it was a rare sight in ordinary shops. However, its growing presence in local markets raises questions about the recent price drop.
At the major fruit wholesale market on Station Road in Chattogram, persimmons were seen being sold at several wholesale shops. Traders reported that last year, the wholesale price for persimmons ranged between 1,000 to 1,200 Taka per kilogram. This year, however, the price has dropped to 720 to 780 Taka per kilogram, marking a reduction of 300 to 400 Taka. With this price drop, demand has surged. Retail prices have also fallen, with persimmons now being sold at 850 to 900 Taka per kilogram, down from 1,400 Taka last year.
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The Story Behind the Price Drop
Before diving into price negotiations and sales figures, it’s important to understand the backstory of persimmon. Research published by various global publishers, as well as the Ministry of Agriculture’s Agri-Bataayan, sheds light on the history and nutritional benefits of this fruit.
Persimmon, known as “Kaki” in Japan, is the national fruit of the country. It has been cultivated in East Asia, especially in China, Korea, and Japan, for over a thousand years. In Japan, the autumn season is synonymous with persimmons, with the vibrant orange fruit often appearing on trees and being featured in poetry, art, and rural festivals.
Historically, during famines or food crises, dried persimmons (Hoshigaki) played a vital role in sustaining lives. This legacy has contributed to persimmon’s informal status as Japan’s national fruit.
Nutritional Benefits
Persimmon has garnered significant attention for its health benefits. According to a study published in the Swiss-based international journal Nutrients, persimmons are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, carotenoids, polyphenols, and tannins. These nutrients act as powerful antioxidants, contributing to heart health, reducing inflammation, and regulating cholesterol levels.
Current Market Trends in Chattogram
This year, the influx of Indian persimmons has played a significant role in driving prices down. While last year, Japan and Thailand were the primary exporters, India—specifically regions like Himachal Pradesh, Kashmir, and Uttarakhand—has emerged as the dominant supplier. Indian persimmons are relatively cheaper, which has contributed to the price drop.
Mohammad Rasheed, the owner of Messrs Haat Hazarika Farm in Chattogram’s wholesale market, shared that their daily sales of persimmons have increased significantly this year. While last year, the fruit was predominantly imported from Japan and Thailand, this year, Indian persimmons dominate the market. The price for wholesale persimmons now ranges from 680 to 780 Taka per kilogram, with daily sales averaging about 800 kilograms.
At another wholesale shop, Messrs New Ahi Enterprise, Muhammad Abdul Karim noted that sales had increased this year due to the price reduction. The demand in upscale areas like Kazir Dewri, Khulshi, and Nasirabad remains high, but now even rural areas like Hathazari, Patiya, and Boalkhali are witnessing increased sales.
Chattogram’s Daily Persimmon Sales
While specific statistics for daily persimmon sales are not available, Tawhidul Alam, General Secretary of the Chattogram Fruit Merchants’ Association, estimated that around 3,000 kilograms of persimmons are sold daily in the city. Over the years, persimmons have gradually entered the mainstream market, and now 10 to 12 wholesale suppliers and about 50 retailers are involved in selling the fruit in the city.
Global Production and Import Trends
According to FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) statistics, the global production of persimmons in 2023 stood at approximately 5.5 million tons. China alone accounted for 40.6 million tons, making up about 80% of global production. South Korea, Azerbaijan, and Japan followed with smaller but significant shares. By 2024, global production is expected to rise to 5.9 million tons.
In Bangladesh, persimmon is fully import-dependent, unlike more commonly available fruits like apples, oranges, and grapes. However, persimmons have recently caught the attention of local importers. Although Bangladesh’s climate is suitable for cultivating certain varieties of persimmons, challenges like lack of quality saplings have hindered large-scale domestic production.
Import Trends: A Shift in Dynamics
Customs data reveals that the volume of persimmon imports has fluctuated over the years. In the 2020-21 fiscal year, Bangladesh imported 22,610 kilograms of persimmons. The volume increased in the subsequent two years to 36,000 and 35,430 kilograms, respectively. However, in 2023-24, the volume decreased to just 18,000 kilograms due to high international prices and slow sales. Import volumes surged again in 2024-25, with imports reaching 64,630 kilograms, nearly three times the previous year.
This rapid increase in imports continued in the 2025-26 fiscal year, with the total volume reaching 182,636 kilograms by December 2025—a 202% increase compared to the same period the previous year.
Looking Ahead: Local Cultivation and Challenges
Despite rising import volumes, Bangladesh’s Agricultural Research Institute (BRRI) has been conducting small-scale experiments to cultivate persimmons in areas like Jessore and Bandarban. However, challenges remain, such as the lack of quality saplings and the lengthy cultivation process—persimmon trees generally begin to bear fruit only after 7 years of planting. Currently, the focus is on importing quality saplings from countries like India and Thailand to meet growing demand.