Dhaka, Jun 19 (V7N) – Fish prices in the capital's markets have increased sharply following a rise in import duty, with consumers facing higher costs for both local and imported varieties.
The proposed budget has raised the duty on fish imports from 46 percent to 70 percent, which traders say has affected supply and contributed to the recent price surge.
On Friday, a public holiday, most farmed fish were being sold between Tk 400 and Tk 700 per kilogram in Dhaka markets. Pabda, Rui and small fish were selling at around Tk 500 per kg, while large-sized Hilsa was available but at significantly higher prices.
Shopkeepers said fish prices have increased by around Tk 100 per kg over the past week and a half. Prices of Indian fish have also continued to rise amid supply challenges.
Meanwhile, consumers have received some relief from the vegetable market, where prices of several seasonal items have declined.
Brinjal, bitter gourd, dhed, chichinga, gourd and patal are being sold for Tk 60 to Tk 70 per kg, while papaya is available at Tk 30 to Tk 40 per kg. Green chilies are being sold at around Tk 120 per kg.
Early varieties of cabbage and cauliflower have also started arriving in markets, with each piece selling for Tk 70 to Tk 80.
Traders expect market conditions to depend on supply trends and the impact of the proposed duty changes in the coming days.
END/SMA/AJ
