As Eid-ul-Fitr approaches, shoppers in Bangladesh face soaring prices for broiler chicken, with rates skyrocketing overnight by Tk 20 per kg. The sudden surge in prices sparks outrage and suspicion among consumers, leading to concerns over market manipulation and artificial crises.

A surprise obstacle for shoppers gearing up for Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations in Bangladesh's busy markets is the rapidly rising cost of broiler chicken. Upon visiting the Karwan Bazar kitchen market, one notices a notable increase in costs, as the cost per kilogram has increased from Tk 230 to Tk 250 in just one night. Shoppers express shock and dismay at the sudden surge, which begs the issue of what factors are causing such a sharp spike.

Trader Muhin Uddin attributes the surge to a sudden arrival of chicken stock, purchased at higher rates, leading to inflated prices in the market. However, consumers like Md Badiuzzaman remain skeptical, labeling the price hike as premeditated and orchestrated.

Blame for the crisis is directed towards syndication by unscrupulous businesses, with Rezaul Kabir of Allahr Dan Chicken House highlighting the role of intermediary dealers in driving up prices. The Bangladesh Poultry Association (BPA) denounces the situation as an "artificial crisis," alleging the exclusion of marginal farmers from chicken production due to exorbitant chick prices.

According to the BPA, the discrepancy between production costs and market rates exacerbates the plight of farmers, further contributing to the turmoil in the poultry market. As consumers and stakeholders grapple with the escalating prices, concerns mount over the impact of market manipulation and the need for regulatory intervention to ensure fair pricing and sustainable practices within the poultry industry.