Prices of broiler, Sonali, layer, and local (deshi) chickens have risen sharply across Dhaka markets ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr.
Over the past week, broiler, Sonali, and layer chickens have increased by around Tk 50 per kilogram, while deshi chicken prices have jumped nearly Tk 100 per kilogram.
Market vendors attribute the price rise to increased demand during the festive season, with farmers holding back supplies to sell closer to Eid, tightening availability in wholesale markets.
Farmers also said that corporate hatcheries raised chick prices threefold one to two months ago to capitalise on the upcoming festival demand, increasing production costs.
Market checks on Monday, March 9, revealed that broiler chicken is being sold at Tk 210–230 per kg, while Sonali and layer chickens are priced at Tk 330–340 per kg. Previously, broilers sold for Tk 170–180, Sonali for Tk 280–300, and layers for Tk 270–290 per kg.
Deshi chicken prices have risen to Tk 650–700 per kg, up from Tk 600 a week ago.
Ramapura market vendor Farid Hossain said, “Demand rises ahead of Eid, as both wealthy and low-income families consume more chicken. Restaurants also increase orders. However, supply from rural areas is limited, causing wholesale prices to rise by Tk 5–10 daily. Prices are expected to climb further a few days before Eid.”
Ariful Islam, owner of Zarina Broiler House in Segunbagicha, said, “Farmers are holding chickens to sell during Eid. The limited supply is the main reason for the price increase.”
Consumers have noted that chicken prices typically rise during Ramadan and Eid, and some believe the current shortage is due to coordinated market practices.
Bangladesh Poultry Association (BPA) President Sumon Howlader blamed corporate hatcheries for the price hike. “The chickens now in the market were purchased as chicks one to one-and-a-half months ago. At that time, companies sold chicks at Tk 90 instead of Tk 30 through coordinated pricing. This increased farmers’ production costs, so despite higher retail prices, small farmers are not seeing increased profits,” he explained.
NH/MHK