Dhaka, Mar 2 (V7N) –As Ramadan arrives, a recent price comparison report issued by the interim government shows a mixed trend in food prices, with some staples becoming more affordable while others continue to rise.

According to data from the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) and local kitchen markets, prices of key food items such as rice, flour, and eggs have declined since January, while fish, chicken, and some vegetables have seen an upward trend.

 

Compared to Ramadan 2024, several essential goods remain cheaper, but concerns remain over volatility in the market.

ESSENTIAL STAPLES SEE PRICE DROPS

Rice prices have decreased marginally, with Najirshail and Miniket varieties dropping by Tk 2 per kilogramme in February. Non-brand wheat flour (atta) fell by Tk 5 per kilogramme, while packaged flour remained stable.

Lentils and pulses, including imported and local chola, saw reductions between Tk 1 and Tk 14 per kilogramme.

Egg prices have also declined by Tk 5 per dozen compared to January, now selling at Tk 125 per dozen.

Non-brand sugar has dropped by Tk 3 per kilogramme, with packaged sugar remaining steady at Tk 125 per kilogramme.

In a significant price cut, onions, potatoes, and green chilies have become considerably cheaper.

Locally produced onions are now Tk 40 per kilogramme, a 50 percent drop from last year's Ramadan prices.

Green chilies, both local and imported, have also plummeted by Tk 50 per kilogramme compared to March 2024.

SHARP INCREASES IN FISH AND POULTRY

While some staples have become more affordable, fish prices have surged.

Large pangas fish saw a sharp increase of Tk 32 per kilogramme in February, while medium-sized tilapia rose by Tk 37 per kilogramme compared to the previous month.

Large koi fish recorded the biggest jump, with a Tk 48 per kilogramme increase since January.

Broiler chicken prices showed mixed trends.

The price of large broiler chickens fell by Tk 2.5 per kilogramme, but smaller ones saw a Tk 3 per kg increase.

Meanwhile, Indian ginger prices rose by Tk 18 per kilogramme.

End/SD/RH