Bangladesh, July 23 -- Betel leaf (paan), one of Bangladesh's traditional cash crops and an important part of the country's cultural heritage, is facing a severe market crisis in Kishoreganj.Bangladesh Business Analysis

Farmers in Gobindapur of Hossainpur upazila said they are suffering heavy financial losses after failing to receive fair prices for their produce. Some have started dismantling their bamboo-fenced betel gardens (baroujs), abandoning thousands of betel vines.

Betel leaf is widely cultivated in bamboo-shaded gardens known as baroujs and is valued for its digestive properties. It is also an important export item, particularly to the Middle East and the UK.

Bangladesh mainly produces two varieties sweet Betel Leaf (Mitha P...