Dhaka, Oct 02 (V7N)- Early winter vegetables have started arriving in markets across the country since the final week of September, but consumers are yet to see any significant relief in prices. Instead, the cost of several vegetables has risen further compared with last week.
Broad beans are being sold for around Tk 200 per kilogram, while round eggplants, green chilies, tomatoes and bitter gourds are also selling at prices above Tk 100 per kilogram.
Traders said vegetable prices have increased further over the past week. Retailers attributed the latest rise partly to higher transportation costs following an increase in fuel prices.
The situation in the fish market is also adding to consumers' difficulties. Traders said fish supplies at wholesale markets have suddenly declined, while the availability of Hilsa has also fallen. As a result, prices of other river fish have increased.
According to vendors, the prices of most varieties of fish have risen by Tk 80 to Tk 100 per kilogram compared with last week. This has made it increasingly difficult for low-income families to maintain fish and vegetables in their daily meals.
Meanwhile, the prices of several essential kitchen commodities have remained unchanged. Potatoes are selling at around Tk 30 per kilogram, while onions are priced at Tk 55. Ginger and garlic are being sold for approximately Tk 150–160 per kilogram.
Despite the arrival of seasonal vegetables, consumers say the higher prices of both vegetables and fish are continuing to put additional pressure on household budgets.
END/SMA/AJ
