Dhaka vegetable prices fall as coarse rice and sugar costs rise

Early-season winter vegetables have begun to arrive in markets across Dhaka, leading to a decline in prices for items such as cauliflower, cabbage, and radish. While the increased supply of produce has provided some relief to consumers, the cost of essential staples, including coarse rice and sugar, has seen a notable increase over the past week.

Data released by the state-run Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) indicates that the price of coarse rice has risen by Tk 3 per kg, with current prices ranging from Tk 50 to Tk 58. Similarly, the cost of sugar has increased by Tk 2 per kg, now retailing between Tk 110 and Tk 115. These price shifts were observed during visits to major city hubs, including Mohammadpur Krishi Market, Town Hall Market, and Agargaon Taltala Market on Thursday.

The arrival of early winter crops is attributed to farmers who plant early-season varieties in anticipation of higher market demand and profit margins. Although cold weather has not yet fully arrived in Dhaka, vendors at these markets report that the volume of produce is steadily increasing, which is expected to drive prices down further in the coming weeks.

Shoppers are currently navigating a varied pricing landscape. A large cauliflower, which was priced between Tk 60 and Tk 70 just two weeks ago, was available for Tk 40 to Tk 50 on Thursday. Green chilli prices have also seen a significant reduction, falling by Tk 40 per kg to reach a range of Tk 60 to Tk 80.

The market for potatoes and tomatoes remains split between new and old stock. New potatoes are currently retailing at Tk 120 per kg, while older potatoes remain significantly more affordable at Tk 20 to Tk 25 per kg. Locally grown new season tomatoes are selling for Tk 120 to Tk 130 per kg, compared to imported varieties which cost between Tk 110 and Tk 120 per kg.

Tajul Islam, an employee of a private company, was among those shopping at the Krishi Market on Thursday morning. While he purchased cauliflower and beans, he noted that the high cost of new-season produce, particularly potatoes and tomatoes, forced him to adjust his shopping list. He indicated that he would wait for prices to stabilise before purchasing these items.

In addition to the vegetable market, the poultry sector has experienced a cooling in prices. Broiler chicken, which had been selling for Tk 190 to Tk 200 per kg for several months, has decreased by Tk 20, now costing between Tk 170 and Tk 180 per kg. Brown eggs from poultry farms have also seen a price reduction of Tk 10 per dozen, bringing the current price to Tk 150 per dozen.

Vendors and market observers note that while winter has already begun in other parts of the country, it may take another 15 to 20 days for the colder weather to fully impact the capital. As the season progresses and production reaches its peak, market participants expect a continued increase in supply, which typically results in further price adjustments across the vegetable category.