Vegetable prices continue to rise in Dhaka as consumers face mounting costs
For more than a week, the prices of almost all types of vegetables have continued to climb in markets across the capital
Highlights:
- Potato, cauliflower and bottle gourd see sharp price jumps
- Brinjal and bean prices surge despite steady supply
- Carrots and onions offer limited relief
- Egg prices fall slightly after recent fluctuations
- Broiler chicken becomes costlier while Sonali remains unchanged
Vegetable prices have risen across Dhaka over the past week, leaving consumers under increasing pressure despite temporary relief from lower prices of eggs and some varieties of onions.
Consumers who experienced some ease at the beginning of the winter season due to increased vegetable supply are no longer seeing that benefit.
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For more than a week, the prices of almost all types of vegetables have continued to climb in markets across the capital. At the same time, chicken prices are rising, although eggs and Murikata (early variety) onions are comparatively more affordable.
This trend was observed today (16 January) during visits to the retail and wholesale markets of New Market, Hatirpool and Lalbagh.
The price of new seasonal potatoes has increased noticeably. Potatoes that were sold for Tk20-25 two weeks ago are now Tk30-35, depending on quality and market.
Cauliflower prices have also gone up, with small-sized cauliflowers now costing Tk40- 50 each, compared to Tk25-30 just days earlier. Bottle gourd has seen a similar rise, now Tk70-80 per piece, around Tk20 higher than before.
Wholesale traders say that although winter intensity has decreased, prices are not falling because the supply of vegetables has not increased at the expected rate.
Brinjal remains available in different varieties, but prices show no relief.
Depending on type and quality, brinjal is being sold for Tk60-70 per kg, while high-quality brinjal has risen to Tk80-100. Green beans show a similar pattern.
Regular-quality beans are Tk45-50 per kg, up from Tk30-35, while higher-quality beans are Tk70-80 per kg, compared to Tk50-70 previously. Local bottle gourd, which was Tk50-60, is now Tk80-100.
Cabbage remains relatively stable, with large sizes available at Tk35-40 each. Even though the peak season is ongoing, the price of tomatoes remains high at Tk80-100 per kg depending on quality. Locally produced carrots offer some relief, now available for Tk40-50 per kg.
On the other hand, the price of local Murikata onions has decreased as supply has increased. Onions sold on vans are available at Tk50 per kg, while grocery shops are selling them at Tk60-70, depending on quality.
Egg prices have also decreased slightly. Farm eggs are now Tk110-120 per dozen. However, broiler chicken prices have increased to Tk175-180 per kg, up from Tk165-170 a week earlier. The price of Sonali chicken remains unchanged, selling for Tk240-280 per kg.
Mainul Hasan, a chicken seller in the New Market area, said demand for chicken has increased due to various social and family events at the beginning of the year, which has influenced prices.
There is also no sign of relief in the fish market. Prices remain high, similar to the past few weeks. Koral fish is Tk700-900 per kg, Ayre Tk600-750, Tengra Tk600-700, Sarputi Tk300-450, and Shing Tk400-500. Rui and Katla are Tk350-450 per kg. Among farmed fish, Pangas and Silver Carp sell for Tk200-280 per kg, and large Tilapia for Tk250-300 per kg. Among marine fish, large prawns are Tk750-1,200 per kg, and small prawns are Tk1,000-1,200 per kg.
Mahbub Alam, a service holder buying fish, said there is "almost no opportunity to bargain in the fish market" and consumers have to buy at whatever price is quoted.
"It feels good that the price of eggs has decreased slightly, but since there is no relief in the price of fish, it is becoming difficult to manage the monthly budget," he added.
