Onion prices spike in Khulna by Tk25–30 per kg, raising concerns

Onion prices in Khulna have jumped by Tk25 per kilogram over the past two weeks, despite no visible shortage in the market, leaving consumers deeply concerned.

Large stocks of onions are seen piled up in warehouses and retail shops, yet prices keep climbing almost daily.

Wholesalers blame reduced supply caused by ongoing rainfall, while retailers say they have no choice but to sell at higher prices because they are buying at inflated rates.

Consumers, however, accuse hoarding syndicates of manipulating prices using baseless excuses.

A visit to retail markets including Khalishpur, Daulatpur, New Market, Moylapota, Jorakal Market, Natun Bazar and Boyra Bazar in Khulna city showed onions selling for Tk75–80 per kg, an increase of Tk25–30 from two weeks ago.

At Sonadanga wholesale market, prices range from Tk62–68 per kg, with a Tk12–13 gap between wholesale and retail.

Harun-or-Rashid, a customer at KDA New Market, expressed frustration, "Onions that used to cost Tk50–60 are now selling for Tk80. I can't figure out the reason. Is it due to hoarding or the floods?"

Shukur Ali, another buyer, said, "I earn a small wage. How am I supposed to buy onions, fish, vegetables and rice now? Poor people are really struggling."

Retailer Sohag from Khalishpur said, "We have to sell onions with limited profit margins. Wholesalers suddenly raised prices due to rain, so we are forced to increase our rates too. Currently, onions cost between Tk75 and Tk80 per kilogram, whereas two weeks ago, the price was Tk50–55."

Mahadev Saha, a vendor at KDA New Market, said onion season is nearing its end, which normally triggers a slight price rise. Heavy rains, he said, slow transport and reduce imports, contributing to higher prices.

"Prices reaching Tk80 per kilogram are still considered normal," he noted. "Compared to previous years, Tk80 is not unusual; prices were Tk50–60 before," he said.

He said there is no shortage of onions in the market and expects prices to ease once letters of credit (LCs) are approved and imports resume.

At Sonadanga's Allahar Dan-1 wholesale market, trader Yead Ali said supply has been disrupted due to adverse weather despite sufficient stocks in the country.

He mentioned that LCs for imports are expected to be issued by 15 August, after which prices could drop by Tk10–15 per kg.

Mohammad Touhidul Islam, a seller at Sonali Banishya Bhandar, said onion prices typically rise during this season, especially when heavy rains reduce supply as the crop is perishable and prone to spoilage.