The holy month of Ramadan is set to begin tomorrow, and poultry prices have already climbed in city markets. The cost of both broiler and Sonali chicken has risen noticeably ahead of the fasting month.

On Wednesday, broiler chicken was selling at Tk 200–220 per kilogram in different markets across the capital, while Sonali chicken was priced between Tk 320 and Tk 350 per kilogram.

For many low- and middle-income families, broiler chicken serves as an affordable source of protein compared to beef, mutton, or expensive fish. Prices of broiler chicken began increasing about two weeks ago. Previously, it was available at Tk 160–170 per kilogram, but rates started to go up around the time of Shab-e-Barat.

Just three to four days ago, broiler chicken could be bought for Tk 180–190 per kilogram, and Sonali chicken was selling at Tk 290–310. This means broiler prices have increased by Tk 20–30 per kilogram, while Sonali chicken has gone up by Tk 30–40 within a short period.

Traders say demand for broiler chicken typically rises at the beginning of Ramadan, putting pressure on supply and pushing prices higher. They expect prices to stabilize after the first week of fasting.

However, compared to last year, the current prices are still slightly lower. At the start of Ramadan last year, broiler chicken was selling at Tk 220–240 per kilogram.

Meanwhile, despite the rise in chicken prices, farm egg prices have remained steady, with a dozen eggs selling for Tk 100–110.

Beef and mutton prices have also increased by Tk 30–50 per kilogram. Beef is now selling for Tk 750–800 per kilogram, while mutton ranges from Tk 1,100 to Tk 1,200. Prices of popular fish varieties such as rohu, katla, pabda, koi, and shing have also gone up compared to previous weeks.