Staff Reporter :
Ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr, the prices of most vegetables, including chicken, have increased notably. For example, broiler chicken is now priced 20-30 taka higher per kilogram compared to last week.
A visit to several kitchen markets in the capital on Saturday revealed these price hikes, with traders confirming an increase in the prices of winter vegetables such as cauliflower, cabbage, beans, and eggplant.
Broiler chicken is currently being sold for 210-220 taka per kilogram, an increase of 20-30 taka compared to last week. Similarly, Sonali chicken is priced between 310-320 taka per kilogram, beef costs 780 taka, mutton is 1200 taka, and goat meat is 1100 taka per kilogram.
In contrast to winter vegetables, the prices of summer vegetables have stabilised. Summer vegetables such as okra, pointed gourd, broad beans, and bitter melon are priced at around 80 taka per kg.
However, prices of winter vegetables continue to rise. Cauliflower is now priced at 60 taka, cabbage at 50 taka, tomatoes at 25-30 taka, green papaya at 60 taka, carrots at 40 taka, cucumbers at 80 taka, and beans at 80-100 taka.
Other essential items for Iftar are also seeing price increases. Lemons are being sold at 50-80 taka per dozen, eggplants at 80-100 taka depending on the variety, chickpeas at 100 taka, and beans at 90 taka. Eggs are being sold at 120 taka per dozen for red eggs and 115 taka for white eggs.
Fahim Molla, a vegetable vendor at Ibrahimpur, explained that the end of the season has led to price hikes across nearly all vegetables. While some summer vegetables like okra and pointed gourd have become cheaper, the price of winter vegetables continues to rise.
Sultan Ahmed, a private-sector employee, expressed concern over the rising prices, stating, “At the start of Ramadan, the prices were relatively low, and the government was managing the situation well.
However, as the season for vegetables ends, prices are naturally going up. The government should ensure they do not rise excessively. Additionally, the sudden increase in chicken prices should be investigated.”
Meanwhile, the Chief Adviser’s office has provided an update on the current market conditions, highlighting trends in essential commodities:
” Rice: Prices remain stable, with premium varieties of Miniket staying elevated, while affordable options hold firm. The supply of rice is sufficient to meet demand.
” Chicken: Wholesale prices for broiler chickens remain high, with retail prices seeing a rise due to regional supply diversions ahead of Eid. Small broiler demand remains robust.
” Eggs: Retail prices of eggs have remained steady at 115 taka per dozen, with a minimum price of 110 taka per dozen. A short-term price hike was observed due to increased buying activity by wholesalers, although demand is expected to shift after Ramadan.
” Fish: Prices for certain fish varieties remain high due to seasonal demand, but market stability is expected in the lead-up to Eid.
” Potatoes: Retail prices for potatoes remain stable at 22 taka per kilogram, with new dry potatoes from both northern and southern regions ensuring an adequate supply.
” Spices: Prices for Chinese garlic have dropped, while local garlic prices have risen due to maturing stock. Ginger wholesale prices have fallen, and onion prices remain unchanged. The higher-priced, long-lasting ‘Hali’ variety continues to dominate the market.
” Pulses: Wholesale prices for fine masoor have dropped, with slight declines observed in chola and khesari. Retail prices for pulses have remained stable, supported by steady imports.
