Rice prices rise by up to Tk 3 per kg; no relief in egg and chicken markets either

Rice prices have risen again in the capital's markets. Within a span of one to one-and-a-half weeks, the price of fine-grain rice has increased by Tk 2 to Tk 3 per kilogram. Simultaneously, the prices of onions, garlic, and loose soybean oil are on the rise. Meanwhile, ordinary consumers are facing added pressure as the prices of broiler chicken and eggs remain high.
This picture of essential commodity prices emerged during visits to the capital's Mohammadpur Krishi Market, Town Hall Market, and Agargaon's Taltala Market on Thursday (October 8).

Traders state that transportation costs for goods have risen due to the hike in fuel prices. Additionally, the increase in rice prices at the mill level is impacting retail markets. However, some retailers have alleged that wholesale markets are charging higher prices than what the increased transportation costs would justify.
Which rice varieties have seen price hikes?
A market survey reveals that the price of Miniket rice has increased by Tk 2 to Tk 3 per kg, depending on the brand. Miniket rice from brands like Diamond, Manjur, and Sagar is now selling for Tk 74 to Tk 75 per kg; just a week ago, the price was around Tk 72.

Furthermore, Rashid brand Miniket rice is selling at Tk 65 per kg, and Mozammel Miniket at Tk 76. Depending on quality, the price of fine Nazirshail rice now ranges from Tk 70 to Tk 95 per kg, marking an increase of Tk 2 to Tk 3.
According to data from the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB), the price of medium-quality Paijam, BR-28, and BR-29 rice has risen by up to Tk 3 per kg, reaching a range of Tk 58 to Tk 65.
However, no significant change has been observed in the market for coarse rice; it continues to sell at Tk 50 to Tk 55 per kg.
What is behind the rise in rice prices?
Traders attribute the price hike to increased transportation costs and rising prices at the mill level. They claim that following the hike in fuel prices, truck rental costs have risen by Tk 2,000 to Tk 3,000 per trip. Since multiple rounds of transportation are required—for paddy procurement, delivery to mills, and subsequent supply to wholesale markets—the overall cost of rice is increasing.
Meanwhile, traders report a rise in paddy prices at various trading hubs, including Naogaon. Consequently, mill owners have raised the price of a 50-kg sack of 'Katari' rice by Tk 50.
However, some retailers allege that due to a lack of proper market monitoring, certain wholesalers are hiking rice prices at a rate that far exceeds the actual increase in transportation costs.
**Prices of Onions, Garlic, and Soybean Oil Also Rise**
It is not just rice; the prices of several other essential cooking ingredients have also gone up in the capital's markets.
Within a week, the price of local onions has risen by Tk 5 per kilogram, reaching Tk 55–60. Garlic prices have seen an even sharper increase, with consumers paying an additional Tk 20 to Tk 30 per kilogram.
Meanwhile, sellers report a supply shortage of bottled soybean oil. Amidst this situation, the price of loose soybean oil has increased by Tk 5 per liter over the past two weeks.
**High Prices Persist in the Egg and Chicken Markets**
Alongside rice, there is no relief in the market for protein sources either. In the capital's retail markets, broiler chicken is selling for Tk 200 per kilogram.
On the other hand, farm-raised chicken eggs are priced at Tk 150–155 per dozen. Although there have been no major recent fluctuations, both commodities continue to sell at steep prices.
With the rising costs of daily essentials like rice, onions, garlic, and edible oil, low- and middle-income consumers are struggling to manage their household expenses. The simultaneous price hike of multiple essential commodities is placing significant additional strain on their monthly grocery budgets.