Broiler chicken prices rise by Tk40 ahead of Ramadan in Chattogram

In the run-up to Ramadan, the price of broiler chicken in Chattogram has increased by as much as Tk40 per kg, reaching Tk200-215 in different city markets, compared to around Tk160 just a few days ago.

The prices of Sonali and indigenous varieties have also risen sharply. However, despite the upward trend in poultry prices, egg prices have remained stable, selling at Tk110 per dozen. According to data from Trading Corporation of Bangladesh, broiler chicken prices have increased by nearly 12% over the past month.

Broiler chicken was selling at Tk200 per kg and Sonali at Tk320 in the Muradpur Hamzar Bagh area today (17 February). In the Kazir Dewri market, broiler chicken was selling at Tk215 per kg and Sonali at Tk350, while indigenous chicken was priced at Tk500 per kg.

The impact has extended beyond the district headquarters to upazila levels as well, with broiler chicken selling at Tk215 per kg in Raozan.

General consumers have expressed strong dissatisfaction over the sudden price hike. City resident Zahedul Islam told TBS, "Just a few days ago, I bought chicken at Tk160, but now it has crossed Tk200. Ordinary people are struggling," he said, demanding stricter government monitoring.

Sellers, however, say they have little control over the situation. A trader at Kazir Dewri, speaking on condition of anonymity, said they procure goods daily and are forced to sell at higher prices because wholesale rates have gone up.

According to traders, increased Ramadan demand and higher farm-level prices have driven up retail prices.

National Consumer Rights Protection Department Assistant Director in Chattogram, Md Anisur Rahman, told TBS that regular market monitoring drives are ongoing. Traders have informed the authority that farmers raised chicken prices citing higher poultry feed costs. He assured that the department will soon speak with farm owners to investigate the matter.