Satkhira, Aug 20 (V7N) – Onion imports from India have resumed after a four-month and 20-day halt, with 2,000 metric tons entering the country through Bhomra land port over the last three days. The move has already begun to impact domestic prices.

Bhomra Customs Revenue Officer Russell Ahmed said imports were halted from March 27 due to the Ministry of Commerce not issuing an Import Permission (IP). Imports restarted on August 17, and 2,283 metric tons of onions have arrived in 75 trucks so far. The volume is expected to gradually increase.

Following the imports, the price of onions has fallen by five to seven taka per kilogram in Satkhira’s Sultanpur market. Domestic onions are now sold in wholesale markets at 64–67 taka per kg, down from 72–74 taka, while retail prices have dropped to 70–72 taka, compared to 78–80 taka previously. Indian onions are being sold at 60 taka per kg.

Satkhira Agricultural Marketing Officer Saleh Mohammad Abdullah noted that while the price drop benefits consumers, if domestic onion prices fall below 60 taka per kg, local farmers could face losses. He also stated that most of the imported Indian onions are being distributed to various parts of Bangladesh, including Dhaka.

The resumption of imports is seen as a measure to stabilize onion prices and address shortages in the domestic market.

END/SMA/AJ