Although Ramadan is still some time away, the prices of essential food items in Bangladesh’s kitchen markets have already begun to surge. Market surveys conducted in Dhaka indicate that prices for staples have risen by 5% to 15% over the past two weeks, largely driven by “market syndicates” and speculative trading ahead of the holy month.

1. Rice Prices: Persistent Highs Despite Aman Harvest

Surprisingly, despite the arrival of the new Aman season rice crop, the prices of older, popular varieties have increased.

• Premium Rice (Miniket & Nazirshail): These high-demand varieties remain expensive, selling for Tk 75–85 per kg. Specifically, Manjur and Sagar brands of Miniket are retailing at Tk 83–84 per kg, up from Tk 80 just two weeks ago.
• Local Nazirshail: Prices have jumped by Tk 3–4, currently ranging between Tk 72–85 per kg.
• New Rice Arrivals: While the new crop is cheaper at Tk 70–74 per kg, many consumers prefer older stock, keeping those prices elevated.
• Coarse Rice: Remained relatively stable at Tk 50–60 per kg.

2. Sugar and Lentils: Crossing the Tk 100 Mark

The cost of sugar and protein sources like lentils has significantly increased, putting pressure on lower and middle-income households.

• Sugar: Unpackaged (loose) sugar has jumped by Tk 10, now selling for Tk 100–105 per kg. Packaged sugar is retailing at Tk 110 per kg.
• Lentils (Pulses):
  • Fine Lentils (Small Grain): Prices remain high at Tk 155–160 per kg.
  • Moong Dal: High-quality Moong dal is retailing for Tk 170–180 per kg.
  • Coarse Lentils: Available at a lower price of Tk 90–110 per kg.

3. Chicken and Poultry Market: Sharp Increases

After a period of stability, the poultry market is witnessing a sharp hike as feed and transportation costs rise.

• Broiler Chicken: Prices have climbed to Tk 175–185 per kg, compared to Tk 160–170 a week ago.
• Sonali/Pakistani Chicken: Currently selling between Tk 250–290 per kg.
• Domestic (Desi) Chicken: Remains a luxury at Tk 550–600 per kg.
• Eggs: Farm eggs are retailing at Tk 115–130 per dozen.

4. Price Comparison Table (Dhaka Market – Jan 2026)

Item	Old Price (BDT/kg)	Current Price (BDT/kg)	Trend
Sugar (Loose)	Tk 95	Tk 105	📈 Rising
Broiler Chicken	Tk 165	Tk 185	📈 Sharp Rise
Miniket Rice	Tk 80	Tk 84	📈 High
Beef	Tk 750	Tk 750 – 800	➖ Stable
Green Chili	Tk 80	Tk 140 – 240	📈 Extreme High

5. Analysis: Is This Artificial Inflation?

Economists and researchers from the Center for Policy Dialogue (CPD) point out a major weakness in market management. Despite a nearly 40% drop in global rice prices, domestic prices in Bangladesh have not reflected this relief.

• Syndication: Powerful business syndicates are identified as the primary reason for these hikes.
• Production Costs: Higher costs for fertilizer, diesel, and labor are also cited by millers as reasons for keeping prices high.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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