ABS Agro

INVOLVEMENT WITH POTATO SECTOR

Bangladesh is the seventh largest potato producing country in the world. Also, potato is the third largest crop in Bangladesh after rice and maize. During our sub-sector analysis, we have found that in Bangladesh, farmers’ produces mostly fresh potatoes. In the year 2020-2021, 11 million metric tons potato produced in our country.
On the other hand, cold storages are insufficient for such amount of potato. So the farmers are losing interest to grow potato every year. To address the issue and to bring a systemic change, ABS has intention to work with through the potato value chain; including quality seed production, table potato production, establish high-tech preservation structure, processing and formal export as well.In this regards ABS Agro has already initiated its journey into Seed Potato and quality table potato production through contract farming model in Thakurgoan,Panchagarh, Joypurhat and Rangpur. Currently, potato is being produced on 100 acres of land with farmers directly working with ABS Agro. Our focus this year is to be able to export the current Asterix and Diamond varieties to some of the regular countries and tap into other markets for export in the future.

OUR STRENGTH

1
We have trained field team build up with agriculturists and professionals deployed in the field to work directly with the farmers, to ensure all the correct steps are taken throughout the season. The capable and experienced field team also have effective network with potato producers groups, input and output market actors and expertise of Department of Agricultural Extension.
2
Having full control over the production, through strict input distribution, pest management and regular cultivation process monitoring.
3
Working with trained farmers groups whose have long experience to produce highest quality of table and seed potato. So, we can ensure the highest quality produce.
4
Have ability to full fill the requirement regarding potato size, quality, quantity, transportation arrangement, packing and timely supply to the end point.
5
Can ensure the required variety and quantity (white Skin and red skin).
6
Working with appropriate export variety for future production may be from next year.
7
Additionally, we can arrange any local variety according to demand.

White Skin: (Diamont)

Tuber Shape Oval-long
White skin & Flesh yellow color
Tuber size quite large
Long dormancy
Shallow eyes
It is well preserved and tolerates
transportation

White Skin: (Sunshine)

Tuber Shape Oval-long
Attractive white skin & Flesh yellow color
Tuber size quite large
Long dormancy
Shallow eyes
It is well preserved and tolerates
transportation

White Skin: (Granula)

Tuber Shape Oval-long
Attractive white skin & Flesh yellow color
Tuber size quite large
Long dormancy
Shallow eyes
It is well preserved and tolerates
transportation

Red skin: (Asterix)

Tuber Shape Oval-long
Red skin & flesh yellow color
Tuber size quite large
Long dormancy
Shallow eyes
The peel is smooth and small eyes are visible on it.
It is well preserved and tolerates
transportation

POTATO EXPORT

Bangladesh produces a few varieties: Asterix, Diamond, Granola, Courage, Lady Rosetta and a few others. Most Popular Table Potato Variety: Asterix and Diamond Most Popular Industrial Variety: Courage and Granola Current Potato Export: Asterix and Diamond Current Potato Exporting Countries: Malaysia, Singapore, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Italy, Saudi Arabia and UAE

ABS Agro has initiated its journey into Potato Farming, growing on leased land in Panchagarh, Joypurhat and Rangpur. Currently, potato is being produced on 100 acres of land with farmers directly working with ABS Agro. Our focus this year is to be able to export the current Asterix and Diamond varieties to some of the regular countries and tap into other markets for export in the future.

Having full control over the production, through strict input distribution, pest management and regular check-ups, we can ensure the highest quality produce. This is done with an experienced and trained team of agriculturists and professionals deployed in the field to work directly with the farmers, to ensure all the correct steps are taken throughout the season.

Other than the export opportunities, we are also looking into the possibilities of supplying in the local wholesale markets in Chittagong and Dhaka. The wholesale markets such as Firingi Bazar, Kajir Dewri and Kawran Bazar are our initial targets, directly supplying to the Arotdar from the fields.

Harvesting will start from 15 February with mid-varieties and finish by the end of March 2022 with late-varieties. Selective and well-maintained cold storage facilities will allow us to store these potatoes till the next harvest with minimal wastage and ensure the highest quality. This will allow us to supply potatoes throughout the year both locally and for export.