Despite a moderate reduction in vegetable prices, broiler chicken costs have increased, according to a survey of various kitchen markets in the capital on Friday (6 December).
The rising prices have further burdened consumers already weighed down by inflation.
Cauliflower is priced at Tk40-50, cabbage at Tk40, turnip at Tk65-70, radish at Tk40, hyacinth beans at Tk60-100, long beans at Tk80, green chilli at Tk120, eggplant at Tk60-80, tomato at Tk160, ridge gourd at Tk60, sweet pumpkin at Tk50, papaya at Tk50, raw tomato at Tk60 per kilogramme and bottle gourd priced between Tk50-60 depending on size.
Meat prices exhibited a noticeable increase.
Sellers reported that broiler chicken and Sonali chicken prices had risen by approximately Tk10 per kilogramme compared to the previous week. Broiler chicken was being sold at Tk190 per kilogramme, Sonali chicken at Tk310, native chicken at Tk520-530, beef at Tk650-700, and eggs at Tk145-150 per dozen.
Additionally, new potatoes were priced at Tk110 per kilogramme, old potatoes at Tk75-80, onions ranged from Tk90-120, ginger was sold at Tk120, and garlic fetched at Tk240-260 per kilogramme.
Despite the arrival of winter vegetables, prices remain higher than usual. Abdur Rahim, a vegetable vendor, remarked, “Prices have decreased significantly. Hyacinth beans were Tk200 per kilogramme earlier but are now Tk60. However, compared to previous years, prices are somewhat higher due to increased production costs for farmers. Still, vegetables are cheaper now.”
Rajib Bepari, an employee at a private company, highlighted the ongoing challenges, stating, “Vegetable prices may have come down, but there’s no relief for us. When the price of one item drops, another rises. While vegetables are cheaper, potato prices are higher. I’ve also heard that soybean oil is scarce in the market. For us, it’s the same struggle—spending less on one item but paying more for another. Our expenses don’t decrease.”
As food prices continue to fluctuate, households across the country find themselves grappling with the relentless squeeze on their budgets.
