The fluctuation in essential commodity prices continues throughout the year. At times, prices rise abnormally, while at other times, products disappear from the market. Dishonest traders exploit these fluctuations, creating artificial crises to profit at the expense of consumers. Since the beginning of the year, oil price manipulation has been a persistent issue. Bottled soybean oil frequently vanishes from the market, and although supply has slightly improved, it still falls short of demand. On a positive note, the overall prices of essential goods have been on a downward trend this year.
A visit to key markets in the capital—Kaptan Bazar, Mohammadpur Krishi Market, and Karwan Bazar—along with conversations with vendors, revealed the latest market trends.
Retailers noted that shopping demand typically increases at the start of Ramadan. However, this year, steady supply has kept prices relatively stable. Some traders attempted to raise prices opportunistically, but reduced demand has led to price adjustments.
Market observations showed a slight decrease in the prices of certain vegetables, including eggplant, green chillies, cucumbers, and tomatoes. Currently, eggplant is priced at 60-90 BDT per kg, cucumbers at 40-50 BDT per kg, tomatoes at 20-25 BDT per kg, and green chillies at 50-60 BDT per kg. Lemon prices, however, remain high, with four lemons selling for 40-80 BDT.
Potato and onion prices remain low, as their supply is abundant. Potatoes are selling at 20-25 BDT per kg, while locally grown onions are priced at 40-45 BDT per kg.
A shopper, Abul Hasan, shared his experience: "Compared to last year, prices seem a bit lower, mainly because winter vegetables are still available. However, the rising prices of rice and oil are concerning. I hope the government takes quick action to address this issue."
Over the past two weeks, the prices of broiler and Sonali chickens have dropped by 10-20 BDT per kg. Broiler chicken is currently priced at 180-210 BDT per kg, while Sonali chicken is selling for 280-300 BDT per kg. Farm eggs are available at 120 BDT per dozen.
Conversely, beef and goat meat prices have increased. Goat meat is selling at 1,150 BDT per kg, while beef prices range between 750-800 BDT per kg.
The fish market remains volatile, with the following price ranges per kg:
- Farmed Rui (2 kg size): 350-380 BDT
- Tilapia: 200-220 BDT
- Pangasius: 180-220 BDT
- Koi: 250 BDT
- Pabda: 400 BDT
- Shing: 450 BDT
- Shrimp: 650-800 BDT
- Hilsa: 800-1,200 BDT
Meanwhile, concerns persist in the rice market. Over the past week, the price of Miniket rice has increased by 2-3 BDT per kg, with the 28-variety rice now selling for 65-70 BDT per kg.
