Prices of essential commodities have risen sharply in markets across the capital ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr, increasing the cost burden on consumers.
The most significant increases have been observed in spices, dry fruits, and protein items, according to market sources on Friday.
A visit to several markets showed that spice prices have increased by Tk 50 to Tk 200 per kilogram within a few days. Cardamom recorded the highest increase and is now selling at around Tk 5,000 per kg.
Other spices have also become more expensive. Cinnamon is selling at Tk 580–600 per kg, cloves at Tk 1,800–2,000, cumin at Tk 700–800, and coriander at Tk 300–360. Bay leaves are currently priced at Tk 250–300 per kg.
Dry fruit prices have also increased. Raisins are selling at Tk 1,000–1,200 per kg, cashew nuts at Tk 1,700–1,800, and almonds at Tk 1,500–1,600. Pistachios have reached around Tk 4,000 per kg.
Prices of meat and poultry have also gone up due to increased demand. Beef is being sold at Tk 850 per kg, about Tk 80 higher than before. Mutton is priced between Tk 1,350 and Tk 1,400 per kg. Broiler chicken is selling at Tk 210–220 per kg, while Sonali chicken is priced at Tk 350–360.
Fish prices have followed a similar trend. Rohu is selling at Tk 350–400 per kg, tilapia at Tk 220–250, and pangas at Tk 240–260. Freshwater prawns are priced between Tk 1,000 and Tk 1,200 per kg depending on size.
However, egg prices have slightly decreased. Red eggs are selling at Tk 110 per dozen, while white eggs are available at Tk 100 per dozen.
Sultan, a trader at Moghbazar’s Charulata Market, said, "Wholesale prices have surged ahead of the festival, and we are forced to pass that cost to the consumer. This is not a retail-level syndicate; the root is in the supply chain," he claimed.
Moushumi Akter, a consumer, said that the focus of market volatility has shifted from fruits during the start of Ramadan to spices and meat as Eid approaches.
"Every time a festival arrives, the market becomes untouchable," she said.
"The government must ensure rigorous market monitoring and hold syndicates accountable to stabilize prices," she added.
EAR/MHK