Brinjal price rises by Tk 40 per kg ahead of Ramadan

The price of brinjal (eggplant) has risen sharply across the country, increasing by Tk 40 per kilogram over the past two days ahead of the holy month of Ramadan. 

Retail prices, which were Tk 60–80 per kg, are now being sold at Tk 100–120 per kg.

According to market sources, the spike is driven by higher wholesale prices, where brinjal currently sells for Tk 70–90 per kg depending on quality.

A survey of Segunbagicha, Shantinagar, and Rampura markets on Wednesday showed round brinjal being sold at Tk 100 per kg, while long brinjal ranges from Tk 100–120 per kg.

The surge in demand is linked to Ramadan customs, as brinjal is a staple ingredient in traditional iftar dishes such as chhola-bhuta (chickpeas with brinjal). Hotels and restaurants also purchase large quantities during this period, further driving up prices.

Market vendor Saidul Islam said, “The demand for brinjal rises sharply during Ramadan, but supply does not increase at the same pace, leading to higher prices in local markets. Almost all vegetables essential for Ramadan have seen price hikes over the past two days.”

He added that retailers purchase from wholesale markets at higher rates and sell with a modest profit of Tk 10–20 per kg. 

Allegations persist that price syndicates in wholesale markets manipulate the rates. Farmers, despite producing the vegetables, often see only a marginal increase of Tk 5–10 per kg, while intermediaries capture the bulk of the profits, leaving both consumers and farmers disadvantaged.

NH/MHK