Over the past two weeks, vegetable prices have eased in markets due to increased supply, offering some relief to consumers. However, prices of rice, fish, poultry, and cooking oil remain high, causing frustration among buyers. Visits to several markets in Dhaka, including Karwan Bazar and Mohammadpur Krishi Market, revealed this trend.

Traders attribute the reduced vegetable prices to a decline in extortion by political groups and fewer market disruptions. Prices have dropped by up to 10 BDT per kg for various vegetables, and further reductions are expected if supply remains stable. Common vegetables such as eggplant, radish, carrots, beans, and tomatoes are priced between 20-130 BDT per kg, while leafy greens like spinach, red amaranth, and water spinach are sold at 10-30 BDT per bundle. Onion prices have also decreased, with local varieties now selling for 50-80 BDT per kg.

In contrast, poultry prices have surged, with broiler chicken costing 200-220 BDT per kg and local varieties priced as high as 600 BDT. Similarly, fish prices remain steep, with popular varieties like rohu, catla, and pangasius ranging between 180-800 BDT per kg.

Cooking oil prices have not stabilized since a hike earlier this month, and bottled soybean oil remains scarce in the market. Meanwhile, rice prices continue to rise despite the harvest season, with premium varieties like miniket and nazirsail selling for 74-85 BDT per kg. Traders cite increased mill-level prices as the cause, impacting both wholesale and retail markets.

Consumers express concern over the persistent high costs of essentials and call for stricter government intervention to regulate the market and curb unethical practices by traders.