Prices Of Essential Commodities Surge Ahead Of Ramadan

The holy month of Ramadan has begun. In the days leading up to Ramadan, the prices of essential commodities had been increasing in various kitchen markets across Bangladesh. Despite various initiatives by the government to reduce prices, there has been no significant impact on the market. Instead, the prices of most commodities have increased.

Today, on Tuesday (March 12), it has been observed that large-sized lemons are being sold for 80 taka each. So, each piece of lemon costs 20 taka. Meanwhile, smaller lemons are being sold for 12 to 15 taka each.

Additionally, local onions are being sold for 90 to 110 taka per kilogram, whereas last year, the price was around 40 taka per kilogram before Ramadan.

The price of broiler chicken has increased as well. It is being sold at 210 to 220 taka per kilogram, which is 20 taka higher than before.

Furthermore, the prices of lentils, anchovies, green grams, chickpeas, sugar, golden chicken, beef, various types of fish, eggplant, and various other vegetables, coriander leaves, and fruits have increased. The only exception is soybean oil, where prices have decreased.

During market visits, it can be seen that the prices of eggplants have increased by 20 to 40 taka per kilogram, ranging from 80 to 120 taka. Sesame is being sold at 100 taka per kilogram. Eggplant and sesame have increased by 20 taka per kilogram each.

On the other hand, the price of chickpeas has increased by 7 taka per kilogram. Indian lentils have increased by 2 to 3 taka per kilogram. Sugar is also on the list of increased rates, being sold at one and a half times the previous price.

The price of dates has increased as well. According to TCB, the minimum price of standard dates is now 280 taka, which was 250 taka just a week ago. Additionally, many people try to keep fruits like Malta, apple, pear, pineapple, watermelon, etc., for iftar. As a result, the price of fruits has increased by 20 to 50 taka per kilogram. For example, a kilogram of Malta is now being sold for 350 to 370 taka.