Dhaka, Mar 20 (V7N) — Continuous holidays ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr have affected raw markets in Dhaka, with good supply but significantly fewer buyers, impacting overall sales—especially for vegetables and salad items.

Market observations show that prices of most vegetables have remained stable or declined. Except for lemons, which are selling between 60 and 100 taka per piece depending on quality, other items have seen little change. Cucumbers and tomatoes are priced between 60 and 80 taka per kilogram, green chilies are available for under 120 taka per kg, and carrots are selling at around 50 taka per kg.

Vegetables such as gourd, bitter gourd, and pointed gourd, which had crossed 100 taka per kg during Ramadan, have now dropped to between 60 and 80 taka. The onion market is also providing some relief, with prices ranging from 30 to 40 taka per kg depending on quality. Imported garlic is priced at around 220 taka per kg, while ginger remains unchanged at 180 taka per kg.

However, the meat market is experiencing increased pressure, particularly for beef. Prices have risen by about 50 taka per kg, with beef now selling at around 800 taka per kg. Boneless and fat-free beef is available at markets like Karwan Bazaar for nearly 1,000 taka per kg. Goat meat remains even more expensive, ranging between 1,200 and 1,300 taka per kg.

Traders say preparations for the upcoming sacrificial season begin before Eid, contributing to higher meat prices. Meanwhile, the poultry market offers little relief to middle-income consumers. Broiler chicken prices have slightly decreased to around 220 taka per kg, while golden chicken costs at least 350 taka per kg. Local chicken is being sold at approximately 700 taka per kg.

The fish market has also been affected by the holidays, with many traders temporarily closing their shops. Despite this, demand for popular fish varieties such as hilsa, rupchanda, and shrimp remains steady. Coral fish has seen increased demand, particularly for barbecue purposes, pushing its price up by at least 100 taka per kg.

Traders expect the market to return to normal within four to five days after Eid, as regular trading activities resume across the capital.

END/SMA/AJ