Prices of almost all locally produced and imported fruits have increased in markets ahead of the holy month of Ramadan. The prices of imported fruits such as apples and malta have risen by around Tk 40 to Tk 60, while local fruits like bananas and plum have become costlier by Tk 20 to Tk 50.
A visit to different kitchen markets in the capital on Wednesday (February 18) showed that locally produced bananas are being sold at Tk 20 to Tk 50 higher per dozen, depending on the variety. A dozen Sagor bananas are now selling for Tk 150, compared to Tk 120 just a few days ago.
Sabri bananas are being sold at Tk 150 to Tk 160 per dozen, while Bangla bananas were seen selling for Tk 100 to Tk 120 per dozen — up by as much as Tk 50 from previous prices.
Meanwhile, although the watermelon season has not fully begun, prices are being charged at Tk 70 to Tk 90 per kilogram depending on size. Guava prices have increased to Tk 100 to Tk 150 per kg, while pineapples are being sold at Tk 40 to Tk 60 per piece based on size.
Seasonal plum is selling at Tk 120 to Tk 200 per kg, and locally grown papaya is priced at Tk 80 to Tk 100 per kg. Prices of these fruits have risen significantly over the past two to three days.
Among imported fruits, dates, malta and apples see the highest demand during Ramadan. Prices of malta and apples have increased by up to Tk 60 per kg. Malta is now selling at Tk 320 to Tk 360 per kg, compared to Tk 280 to Tk 300 earlier. Apples are being sold at Tk 360 to Tk 400 per kg depending on the variety.
Traders said fruit demand has increased ahead of Ramadan, while supply has been somewhat disrupted due to the election. Transportation costs have also risen significantly. There are also allegations of price manipulation through syndicates at different wholesale markets.
Jamedul Haque, a fruit seller in Rampura, said people buy more fruit during Ramadan, but adequate supplies are not available in wholesale markets. “We are buying fruits from wholesalers at Tk 20 to Tk 50 higher prices,” he said.
A buyer, Mohiuddin Chowdhury, said the rise in prices of essential items ahead of Ramadan has become almost inevitable. “The same trend is being seen this year as well. The government should strengthen market monitoring,” he added.