Dhaka, Nov 06 (V7N)- The supply of seasonal vegetables is increasing in Dhaka markets ahead of winter, bringing some relief to consumers as prices have eased from the high levels recorded a month ago.
Fresh winter vegetables are now available in markets across the capital. Most varieties are selling for Tk 50 to Tk 70 per kilogram, while green chillies have fallen to Tk 80 per kilogram. However, tomatoes and carrots are still priced above Tk 100 per kilogram.
Despite the decline, buyers say vegetable prices have yet to reach an affordable level. Retailers, meanwhile, attribute the slower-than-expected reduction to higher transportation costs and additional margins charged at different stages of distribution.
While vegetable prices are showing signs of easing, the chicken market remains under pressure. Retailers say reduced production at poultry farms has affected supply. Broiler chicken is selling at Tk 180–185 per kilogram, while golden chicken remains unchanged at Tk 320 per kilogram. The price of local chicken has increased by Tk 50–80, reaching Tk 650–680 per kilogram.
Egg prices have also remained high. A dozen red eggs costs Tk 145–150, while white eggs are selling for around Tk 135 per dozen.
There has been no significant change in the meat market either. Beef is selling at Tk 760 per kilogram, while mutton costs Tk 1,250 per kilogram.
Fish prices in the capital also remain high despite the peak season. Varieties ranging from river and coastal fish to farm-raised fish are being sold at elevated prices.
Fish traders say the expected increase in river fish supplies has not materialised despite the fishing ban, keeping market supplies limited. Higher transportation costs and holiday-related factors have also contributed to rising prices.
Traders say the situation has affected their businesses, with sales falling to around one-third of their usual level.
END/SMA/AJ
