The price of bottled soybean oil has risen sharply in the domestic market, with a Tk14 increase per litre, now retailing at Tk189.
Meanwhile, loose soybean oil has also seen a Tk12 hike, bringing its new price to Tk169 per litre.
Despite improved supply in major wholesale markets, a noticeable shortfall persists in smaller retail outlets and local corner shops.
A visit to Karwan Bazar and grocery stores in Mirpur-11 on Wednesday (16 April), revealed the new prices on full display.
At Karwan Bazar, every grocer was selling the freshly priced soybean oil at Tk189 per litre.
Some had neatly arranged bottles of the new stock, but none were seen selling oil at the previous rate.
Shopkeepers explained that selling old stock at inflated prices was no longer feasible.
“If we charge more than the labelled price, customers complain to the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection,” one trader said.
When asked about supply, most wholesalers stated that they had received adequate quantities from suppliers.
“The companies have provided enough oil to meet our needs,” one merchant affirmed.
However, the situation differs in the retail outlets of Mirpur-11. Many local grocers there reported delays in receiving new stock.
Miraj, a grocery shop owner, said, “I am aware of the price increase, but I have yet to receive the new batch. When I called the dealer, he said the oil hadn’t arrived yet.”
He added, “I still have a small quantity of the old stock and am selling it at the previous price.”
Another shopkeeper, Mahfuz, noted he had received a fraction of what he ordered.
“I ordered 20 litres but received only nine,” he said.
The hike has sparked frustration among consumers.
“Oil prices were already high. Now they’ve gone up another Tk14 per litre. How are we supposed to manage our meals?” one customer asked.
Many have called on the government to intervene and bring prices down to a more reasonable level.
To summarise, the government has approved a Tk14 increase for bottled soybean oil, setting the new price at Tk189 per litre. Loose soybean oil has seen a Tk12 hike, with the price now fixed at Tk169 per litre.
