US – Iran war drives up prices of Eid essentials

The ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran is beginning to cast a shadow over Bangladesh’s domestic commodity market, as rising transportation and logistics costs place additional pressure on consumers with limited incomes.

Traders say the war has disrupted global shipping routes and increased fuel and shipping charges, gradually affecting the prices of essential commodities in local markets.

The higher cost of transporting goods from wholesale hubs to retail markets is ultimately being passed on to consumers.

Market insiders report that transportation cost increases are already influencing several key festival-related commodities, including aromatic rice, beef, chicken, fish, and edible oil.

The price pressure comes at a time when demand for food items rises ahead of Eid al-Fitr, with only four to five days remaining before the festival.

Consumers have begun purchasing ingredients for festive meals, contributing to a gradual upward movement in prices.

Retailers noted that although the increases are not yet drastic, the combined impact of higher transport costs and seasonal demand is creating early signs of inflation.

Demand for aromatic or polao rice has increased, pushing prices up by Tk15–20 per kg over the past week.

Branded varieties now sell for Tk155–175 per kg, while loose rice is priced between Tk125 and Tk140. Md Yusuf, owner of Maryam Store in Segunbagicha Market, told The New Nation that higher transport costs along with rising Eid demand have contributed to the increase.

Beef prices have risen in several markets. In Maniknagar, beef sells at around Tk750 per kg, while in Jatrabari and Segunbagicha it ranges between Tk800 and Tk850 per kg. Md Manik, owner of Manik Meat Market, said many traders have raised prices, though he continues to sell at Tk750 per kg.

Broiler chicken now sells for Tk210–220 per kg, up from about Tk185 a week ago, while golden chicken has risen to Tk350 per kg from Tk320. In the fish market, pangas sells for Tk200–220 per kg, tilapia around Tk220, rui Tk350–400, and mrigal Tk300–320. Shrimp prices have also increased ahead of Eid, ranging from Tk550 to Tk900 per kg depending on size and variety.

Traders report a mixed situation in the edible oil market. Loose soybean and palm oil remain available, but bottled oil—particularly five-litre containers—is scarce. As more consumers shift to loose oil, prices have risen by Tk4–5 per kg over the past week.

These trends were observed during visits to several kitchen markets in the capital, including Jatrabari, Segunbagicha, and Maniknagar.

Vendors in these markets said customer turnout has increased in recent days as families begin stocking up on essentials ahead of the Eid festivities.

However, some relief has come from a few grocery items that remain relatively stable. Prices of sugar, semai—a popular ingredient for Eid desserts—and most common spices have largely remained unchanged. Sugar sells for around Tk100 per kg, local onions at Tk40 per kg, imported ginger at Tk120–130 per kg, and garlic at Tk80–120 per kg.

On Sunday, speakers at a rally organised by the Consumers Association of Bangladesh in front of the National Press Club highlighted the difficulties faced by consumers due to adulterated products and rising prices of essentials. They also criticised traders who create artificial shortages through hoarding.

The rally, held to mark World Consumer Rights Day, called for strict action against adulterated and unsafe goods, price manipulation, and hoarding, urging authorities to ensure fair market practices ahead of the festival season.