Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our eco-friendly Areca products, ordering, and exports.
What are your products made from?
Our products are crafted entirely from naturally fallen Areca palm leaf sheaths. No trees are cut down and no leaves are forcibly harvested — the sheaths detach on their own. They are then pressure-washed with clean water, sun-dried, and heat-pressed into shape using molds. Zero chemicals, binders, additives, or glues are used at any stage of production.
Are your products chemical-free and food-safe?
Absolutely. Our entire manufacturing process is chemical-free — no coatings, binders, or artificial treatments. Every plate and cup that leaves our facility is 100% food-safe and certified hygienic, making them ideal for direct food contact including hot meals, soups, and oily dishes.
Are the plates microwave and oven safe?
Yes. Our Areca leaf plates are microwave-safe for up to 2 minutes on high power, and oven-safe for up to 45 minutes at 180°C / 350°F. They handle both hot and cold foods without absorbing moisture or leaking — unlike paper or foam alternatives.
Will the plates affect the taste of my food?
Not at all. Areca leaf is completely inert — it does not alter the flavour of food or leach any chemicals when exposed to heat, oils, or liquids. Your food tastes exactly as it should.
How durable are Areca plates compared to paper or plastic?
Significantly more durable. Areca leaves are naturally tough and fibrous — rigid like wood and highly puncture-resistant. You can cut food directly on them with a metal knife and fork without slicing through. Unlike paper plates, they hold up perfectly under gravies, sauces, and wet foods.
What shapes and sizes do you offer?
We offer an assortment of shapes and sizes — round plates, square plates, bowls, cups, and eco-packaging components — to cover all food-serving needs from casual dining to high-end catering and events. Custom shapes are available for bulk orders.
Are your products truly 100% biodegradable?
Yes, without exception. Our plates break down naturally in a home compost pile within 60 to 90 days, returning nutrients to the soil. No industrial composting facility is required — they decompose just like any other organic matter.
How does Areca compare to bamboo or paper plates environmentally?
Areca is the superior choice. Paper plates contribute to deforestation; bamboo often requires harvesting the plant itself. Our Areca plates are made from sheaths that have already naturally fallen — a true zero-waste process. No trees are cut, no crops are grown exclusively for production, and the material is not chemically treated.
Can Areca products replace single-use plastic?
Absolutely. Our products are a proven alternative to plastic, foam (thermocol), and foil tableware — especially relevant in Europe and other markets where single-use plastic regulations are tightening. They meet both functional performance and sustainability compliance requirements.
Why do some plates have different shades or grain patterns?
This is entirely natural. Because each leaf sheath is unique, colours range from creamy whites and pearls to light beiges and warm browns, often with natural grain lines and silver streaks running through them. These variations are a hallmark of natural material — not a defect. We apply strict grading standards to ensure dimensional and quality consistency within each batch.
What is your minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
We offer flexible MOQs suitable for both emerging importers and large-scale buyers. Whether you’re placing your first trial order or running a high-volume procurement, we’ll work out an arrangement that fits your needs. Contact our team for a tailored quote.
Can I get custom packaging or private labelling?
Yes. We offer custom packaging, branded boxes, and private label options for qualifying order quantities. Whether you need your logo on the box or a fully customised retail pack designed for a specific market, our team can accommodate it.
Do you handle export documentation?
Yes, fully. We manage complete export documentation including phytosanitary certificates, packing lists, and customs clearance support. Our Dhaka headquarters coordinates all buyer communications and shipment paperwork, ensuring a smooth and professional process from factory to destination port.
Can I request product samples before committing to a bulk order?
Absolutely. We encourage all new buyers to request samples first so you can assess quality firsthand. Reach out via email or phone and our team will arrange dispatch promptly.
Is supply available year-round?
Yes. We maintain a consistent, year-round supply through our dedicated sourcing network across Bangladesh. Our Halishahar factory operates continuously, and our location adjacent to Chattogram port enables fast, reliable dispatch for international shipments.
Do you offer factory-direct pricing?
Yes. There are no middlemen in our supply chain. Buyers deal directly with our factory and sales team, which means competitive, transparent pricing and faster decision-making on both sides.
Where is A & A International located?
We operate from two locations in Bangladesh. Our manufacturing factory is in Halishahar, Chattogram — strategically close to the port for efficient logistics and export operations. Our corporate headquarters is in Uttara, Dhaka (House 38, Road 3B, Block F, Sector 15), where our global sales, buyer relations, and export documentation teams are based.
Which countries do you export to?
We currently serve buyers across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and beyond. As global demand for sustainable alternatives to plastic continues to grow — particularly across Europe — we are actively expanding our international partnerships.
Who manufactures the products?
All products are manufactured in-house at our Chattogram facility, which is powered by a skilled, predominantly women-led workforce. We take pride in ethical production, long-term employment, and a stable partnership mindset that prioritises quality and consistency.