Chattogram: People, especially the Muslim community, have been relieved to find that the prices of major commodities remained stable during Ramadan, reversing the trend of price hikes seen in previous years.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, importers and traders in the major commodity hubs of Khatunganj and Chaktai, along with city retailers, attributed this stability to the increased supply and absence of artificial crises. The recent democratic transition under the BNP government, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, following a peaceful election, has positively influenced the market.
The demand for essential Ramadan commodities in Chattogram has significantly increased supply, leading to a notable drop in prices in both wholesale and retail markets. The BNP-led government has implemented policies such as tax reductions and other supports to ensure stable and affordable prices. These measures have encouraged businesses to import more, countering dishonest trade practices.
While traders typically raise prices during Ramadan, this year has seen a cooling down in the market. Prices of some products have decreased since the start of Ramadan, particularly in major markets like Khatunganj-Chaktai and wholesale fruit markets like Reazuddin Bazar.
Kamal Uddin Chowdhury, a regular shopper at Chawkbazar, noted the significant decrease in prices since the initial spike after the national elections. Items such as lemon, cucumber, and brinjal have become more affordable.
Azmat Ali, a businessman, observed that the initial pre-Ramadan grocery rush caused prices to rise, but the current market conditions have eased due to timely imports. Shahidul Islam, an NGO official, confirmed that while vegetable prices were high in the first 10 days of Ramadan, they have since decreased by Tk 10 to Tk 15 per kg.
However, the price of broiler chicken has risen, causing concern among consumers. Abdul Azim, a chicken trader, explained that high demand during Ramadan, coupled with insufficient supply, led to the increase. Sonali chicken is priced between Tk 300 to Tk 310 per kg, while broiler chicken eggs are at Tk 100 to Tk 105 per dozen.
Despite the stability in other markets, vegetable prices have risen, with tomatoes, brinjal, cabbage, cauliflower, and other vegetables seeing significant price increases. Mohammad Ali Azgar, a vegetable retailer, explained that the transition from winter to summer vegetables contributed to price fluctuations.
Md. Ayub from Bahaddarhat Khanca Bazar noted that while onion imports have increased, prices have dropped to Tk 25-30 in retail markets due to the abundant supply. Imported fruits, despite increased import quantities, remain expensive, except for dates, which have benefited from an import duty cut.
Fish prices have slightly decreased, providing some relief to consumers. However, challenges remain for onion farmers and wholesalers facing losses due to low prices. Despite these challenges, consumers are generally benefiting from the current market conditions, with onions being sold at affordable rates in city alleys.