Onion prices high; potatoes, vegetables affordable

Even after the recent import of onions, prices have yet to ease for consumers, though new potatoes and other vegetables are now available at more reasonable rates.

Domestic onions from the previous season are being sold at Tk 140-150 per kg, while loose onions are priced around Tk 120 per kg, occasionally reaching Tk 130 in some markets. Imported onions are being sold between Tk 100-120 per kg, despite the fact that the cost of Indian onions is only 15-16 rupees per kg, which could allow them to be sold domestically at Tk 40-45 per kg. Traders say the high price of domestic onions has influenced importers to sell imported onions at inflated rates.

In recent days, onion prices briefly fell by Tk 20-30 per kg in wholesale markets following import announcements, but the drop was short-lived, with prices rising again within two days. Limited supply of both imported and loose onions has contributed to persistently high prices.

Meanwhile, prices of new potatoes and other vegetables have declined. Three-kg packages of new potatoes are being sold at Tk 100, while retail prices range from Tk 35-40 per kg. Beans are selling for Tk 60-80 per kg, and vegetables like eggplant, bitter gourd, bottle gourd, and okra are priced between Tk 40-70 per kg. Cauliflower and cabbage now cost Tk 30-40 each.

Poultry and eggs have also seen moderate price reductions. Farm eggs are sold at Tk 115-120 per dozen, while broiler chicken costs Tk 150-160 per kg, and Sonali chicken is priced at Tk 250-270 per kg. Traders note that the abundant supply of vegetables during winter has slightly reduced demand for eggs and poultry.

Edible oils, however, have become more expensive. Bottled soybean oil now sells at Tk 195 per litre, up from Tk 189, while five-litre bottles of soybean oil have increased from Tk 922 to Tk 955. Palm oil is now priced at Tk 166 per litre, and loose soybean oil costs Tk 176 per litre. Other grocery items have largely remained stable.

While onion prices remain high, consumers are finding relief in the affordability of new potatoes and winter vegetables. Market experts suggest that onion prices may stabilise only once supply increases significantly.

NH/MHK