Chui jhal spice booms in Khulna, attracting farmers and food lovers
Khulna, known for the Sundarbans and shrimp, is seeing a rise in the popularity of chui jhal, a spice gaining attention both locally and internationally. Chui jhal, or Piper chaba, is cultivated in the region’s southwestern districts, including Khulna, Satkhira, and Bagerhat. Farmers like Abu Zafar and Nabadwip Mallik have found success with its cultivation, offering opportunities for both local and educated farmers.
Nabadwip, for example, runs a nursery and has sold 70,000 saplings, earning significant profit. Chui jhal is in high demand for its flavor and medicinal benefits, with restaurants in Khulna using it to enhance meat dishes. The spice is now cultivated on 130 hectares, producing 374 tonnes annually, with over 4,000 farmers involved. The Department of Agricultural Extension promotes its cultivation, recognizing its potential as a growing agricultural product.
