Historically, Mymensingh district was known for jute production which was termed 'golden fiber' due to revenue it generated as a cash crop. Due to the high demand for polythene bags and other economic reasons, the jute industry has been significantly declined today. Agriculture is the most important sector contributing to GDP, followed by the growing service sector in the city. The increasing demand for fish in the local and global markets has generated a new opportunity for local fishermen as well as businessmen to exploit fishing in Mymensingh and today it is very important to the economy. People have changed their paddy fields to ponds, and are cultivating fish. Prawns, sometimes reaching a very large size in the winter, are sold in Mymensingh in great numbers. The entire area between Durgabari Road,and Maharaja Road comprises the traditional shopping area. There are places like Ganginarpar, Boro Bazaar, Choto Bazaar, Mechua Bazaar within this area. There are spots like Jilapi Patty which is for making and selling jilapi. The main road from Notunbazar to the railway station hosts a number of shops for manufactured products and clothing on the two sides. The old colonial brothels in a moderate Muslim country is a paradox, involving prostitution, drugs and crimes
