Rice, sugar, eggs, onion prices rise; veges cheaper

Prices of rice, sugar, eggs and onions have increased in the capital’s markets, while chicken and several vegetables have seen a decline, according to traders and market visits on Friday (24 April).

Market sources said the upward trend in prices has been driven mainly by rising fuel costs, which have increased transport fares and overall supply chain expenses. Traders added that truck fares have gone up significantly in recent weeks, further pushing up commodity prices.

In the past week, medium-quality rice such as BR-28 and Paijam has increased by Tk 2–3 per kg and is now selling at Tk 55–60. Prices of coarse rice varieties like Swarna and China IRRI, as well as fine rice (Miniket), have also risen slightly in some markets, ranging between Tk 52–55 and Tk 70–85 per kg respectively.

Sugar prices have increased by Tk 5 per kg, with loose sugar now selling at Tk 105–110, while packaged sugar is priced at around Tk 110 per kg.

Onions have also become more expensive, rising to Tk 35–45 per kg compared to Tk 30–35 a week earlier.

Egg prices remain high, with farm eggs selling at Tk 130–140 per dozen, up from Tk 100–110 previously. In some areas, prices have reached as high as Tk 150 per dozen at retail level.

However, prices of chicken have declined. Broiler chicken is now selling at Tk 180–190 per kg, while Sonali chicken is priced at Tk 350–370 per kg, down from as high as Tk 380–410 in recent weeks.

Vegetable prices have also fallen due to increased supply. Most vegetables are now selling at Tk 50–60 per kg, with sharp declines of Tk 20–30 per kg in many items, traders said.