Rice prices on the rise in Dhaka’s markets as vegetables become more affordable

While Ramadan has brought a reduction in the prices of most everyday products in Dhaka‍‍`s markets, rice prices have unfortunately seen a significant rise. 

In just one week, the price of several types of rice, including thin rice, has increased by 3 to 8 taka per kilogram. 

Thin rice is now priced between 80 to 86 taka per kilogram, while coarse rice has reached up to 62 taka per kilogram. 

This has put additional pressure on lower-income families who already struggle to afford daily essentials.

Despite this rise in rice prices, some relief has been found in other areas. 

The soybean oil supply shortage that affected the market earlier in Ramadan has eased, and the prices of vegetables such as lemons, cucumbers, and eggplants have gone down. 

Overall, the vegetable market remains stable, offering some comfort to shoppers.

However, rice continues to be a source of concern. 

While the government has managed to import sufficient amounts of rice from countries like India, Pakistan, Myanmar, and Vietnam to compensate for last year‍‍`s production shortfall caused by natural disasters, the price of thin rice still keeps climbing.

Jamil Mia, a rice trader at Karwan Bazar, said, “The price of good-quality thin rice has increased by 3 to 8 taka per kilogram. Now, we have to pay 80 to 86 taka per kilogram for thin rice. Coarse rice is being sold for 58 to 62 taka per kilogram, while Nazirshail is priced at 74 to 76 taka per kilogram.”

Retailers pointed out that rice prices have increased three times over the past six months, with an increase of 8 to 10 taka per kilogram.

As Eid approaches, consumers are hoping for some relief in rice prices, but so far, the situation remains unchanged.

Forhad Hossain Chakdar, the General Secretary of the Naogaon Rice Mill Owners Association, explained, “Due to a decrease in supply, rice prices are rising in the market.”

Experts believe that focusing more on rice imports and increasing the amount of rice sold at lower prices in open markets could provide some relief, especially for low-income families struggling to make ends meet.

As the festive season approaches, shoppers remain hopeful for an improvement in rice prices, but until then, it seems the cost of rice will continue to be a challenge for many.