TBT Desk: With the holy month of Ramadan just around the corner, markets are witnessing a steady rise in demand for essential commodities. Every year, as the month of fasting approaches, the prices of staples such as chickpeas, lentils, sugar, cooking oil, puffed rice, and dates tend to skyrocket. However, this year, shoppers are experiencing an unusual sense of stability in the prices of most products.
Despite this welcome relief, one major concern remains-the ongoing shortage of soybean oil. For nearly a month, consumers have been struggling to find cooking oil at reasonable prices, and the situation has yet to improve. While other goods are readily available at stable prices, soybean oil has become a rare find in many shops across the capital.
As the countdown to Ramadan continues, grocery stores have already begun to see an influx of customers. Many shoppers are eager to stock up on necessary items before prices fluctuate further. A visit to several markets on Friday morning revealed that chickpeas were selling at Tk 105-110 per Kg, the same rate as last year. Similarly, khesari lentils were priced at Tk 110-120, while masoor lentils ranged between Tk 120-130 per Kg.
Sugar prices, which had surged to Tk 125-130 per Kg just two months ago, have also declined slightly, with current rates standing at Tk 115-120 per Kg.
While most essential goods have maintained stable prices, the crisis surrounding soybean oil continues to cause concern among both traders and consumers. Many shopkeepers reported difficulties in restocking oil, leaving customers frustrated. Some buyers complained that vendors were taking advantage of the situation by charging Tk 200 per litre-significantly higher than the official price of Tk 175 per litre. Others noted that some traders were opening branded oil bottles and reselling the contents in bulk at inflated prices.
One disgruntled shopper expressed his frustration, stating, "Every year before Ramadan, the demand for soybean oil rises, and suppliers take advantage by restricting distribution. This artificial shortage is nothing but an attempt to exploit consumers. Since the prices of other goods have remained stable, traders are now trying to recover their lost profits through cooking oil."
Unlike previous years, onions are not expected to be a cause for concern this Ramadan. A strong harvest season has ensured a stable supply, keeping prices within a reasonable range of Tk 45-50 per Kg. This has come as a relief to consumers, who have often faced steep price hikes in the past.
Meanwhile, the demand for other Ramadan staples such as puffed rice and dates has also begun to rise. Puffed rice is currently being sold at Tk 80-90 per Kg, which remains unchanged from last year. The price of dates, however, has seen a slight decline compared to the previous year's abnormal surge. Regular-quality dates are now available at Tk 250-300 per Kg, while premium varieties range from Tk 400-800 per Kg.
The vegetable market has also remained relatively stable, with ample supply helping to keep prices in check. Turnips are currently priced at Tk 30-40 per Kg, while different varieties of beans are selling for Tk 30-50 per Kg. Tomatoes are available for Tk 20-30 per Kg, aubergines for Tk 40-50, and papayas for Tk 30-40. Bottle gourds are being sold at Tk 20-40 each, while potatoes remain one of the most affordable options at Tk 20-25 per Kg.
Egg prices have also remained steady, with a dozen farm eggs available for Tk 135-140. Poultry prices, however, continue to vary, with broiler chickens selling for Tk 190-200 per Kg and the higher-priced Sonali chickens fetching Tk 300-310 per Kg.
As Ramadan approaches, the market is showing an encouraging level of price stability, providing relief to consumers. However, the unresolved issue of soybean oil continues to cast a shadow over an otherwise steady market. Unless supply improves soon, shoppers may be forced to pay significantly higher prices for this kitchen essential in the coming weeks.