RAJSHAHI, Feb 8 (V7N) – With the holy month of Ramadan approaching, concerns are growing among low- and middle-income households as essential food prices show mixed trends in markets across Rajshahi metropolis.

A visit on Sunday to Sahebbazar, Sagarpara, Shalbagan and Upabhadra markets found that rice prices remain high despite the peak Aman paddy harvesting season and ongoing imports. Traders indicated that prices may rise further in the coming weeks.

Coarse rice (Guti Swarna) was selling at Tk 50–52 per kg, while 28 rice was priced around Tk 65 per kg. Branded Miniket rice from different companies was selling at Tk 85–87 per kg. Consumers said rice prices have not eased even during the peak season.

Rice trader Ataur Rahman said prices were largely influenced by mill-level supply decisions, adding that although imported rice has entered the market, its impact on retail prices has been limited. He also noted the possibility of price increases during Ramadan.

In contrast, prices of winter vegetables have declined due to ample supply. Cut onions were selling at Tk 50 per kg, while imported onions were priced at around Tk 80 per kg. Ginger was selling at Tk 160–200 per kg, garlic at Tk 110–180 per kg, and new potatoes at Tk 25–30 per kg.

Among vegetables, beans and round brinjal were selling at Tk 30 per kg, down from Tk 40, while long brinjal was also priced at Tk 30 per kg. Green chillies declined slightly to Tk 100 per kg. The sharpest drop was seen in country beans, now selling at Tk 90 per kg compared to Tk 140 earlier.

Other prices included tomatoes at Tk 40 per kg, local carrots at Tk 40, raw papaya at Tk 30, cucumber at Tk 70, bitter gourd at Tk 100, sweet pumpkin at Tk 30, banana at Tk 30 per dozen, pumpkin pieces at Tk 40, gourd pieces at Tk 70 and lemons at Tk 40 per kg.

Poultry prices, however, have edged up. Broiler chicken rose by Tk 10 to Tk 180 per kg, while golden chicken increased to Tk 280 per kg. White cock chicken was selling at Tk 270 per kg. Beef and mutton prices remained stable at Tk 750 and Tk 1,150 per kg respectively.

Fish prices were largely unchanged. Rui was selling at Tk 320–420 per kg, Katla at Tk 340–440, Kalbaush at Tk 300–370, Shing at Tk 340–640, Taki at Tk 410–540, Silver Carp at Tk 210–280, Shoal at Tk 590–640, Tilapia at Tk 200–280, Mrigel at Tk 280–350, Pabda at Tk 400–530, Tangra at Tk 510–780, Pangash at Tk 170–200 and Kai at Tk 250–350 per kg.

Prices of other essentials remained mostly stable. Sugar was selling at Tk 110–120 per kg, thin lentils at Tk 165 per kg, chickpeas at Tk 100–110 per kg, and two-kg packets of flour at Tk 120–130.

Consumers said while falling vegetable prices offered some relief, sustained high rice prices remain a major concern as Ramadan draws near.

END/RAR/RH/