Dhaka, Dec 12 (V7N) — Despite the arrival of new onion varieties and ongoing imports, onion prices have surged once again within a week. A visit to several markets in the capital on Friday (December 12) revealed that the supply of imported onions remains extremely limited, while prices have climbed back into the hundreds.

Retailers allege that a wholesalers’ syndicate is controlling the market and preventing prices of local onions from dropping. They claim that high wholesale rates are forcing them to sell at inflated prices. However, both buyers and sellers agree that the prices of vegetables and newly harvested potatoes remain relatively stable.

Last week, onion prices had dropped to 30 taka per kg following news of increased imports. Consumers had hoped that the arrival of new varieties would ease the market. But that expectation has failed once again, and prices have soared in the capital’s retail markets.

Price situation in the market

  • Local onions (old): still selling at 150 taka per kg, unchanged from previous weeks.

  • Murikata onions: wholesale price 105 taka, retail up to 120 taka.

  • Imported onions: almost absent from markets — “as rare as a new moon,” according to sellers.

  • Potatoes: new potatoes selling at 50 taka per kg, while old potatoes remain at 25 taka.

Meanwhile, prices of some vegetables remain volatile:

  • Peas: 300–400 taka per kg

  • New beans: prices rising

  • Cabbage, cauliflower, brinjal: relatively stable at 50–60 taka per kg

Despite government assurances, onion and potato prices continue to burden consumers, especially middle-income families. Buyers say they want fair pricing that supports both farmers and consumers, preventing middlemen from reaping excessive profits.

END/SMA/AJ