Lemon Prices Spike Ahead of Ramadan: Half a Dozen Now Costs as Much as a Dozen

With Ramadan set to begin this month, lemon prices have surged sharply across markets in the capital and surrounding areas. Now, a “hali” (half a dozen) of lemons is not available for less than 50 BDT. Just a few weeks ago, the same price would fetch a full dozen. Currently, the price of a hali ranges from 50 to 80 BDT, meaning a single lemon costs at least 12.50 BDT. Meanwhile, cucumbers are selling at 70–80 BDT per kilogram, which has also reduced buyers for both items.

During a market survey on Tuesday, reporters visited Mohammadpur Agricultural Market, Shekhertek, Ashkona, and Karwan Bazar and observed the steep price hike. Vendors reported that prices have been climbing steadily for the past two weeks.

Lemon juice is a key beverage for iftar for all, rich or poor. Even with around 17 days left until Ramadan begins, the current high prices may trouble buyers. Comparatively, other vegetables such as potatoes, tomatoes, cauliflower, and beans are now cheaper than lemons.

Housewife Rashida Khatun from Shekhertek said she bought a hali of lemons for 30 BDT earlier last week. But when she visited the market yesterday, the same hali cost 70 BDT. Retail vendor Tariqul Islam said he purchased 200 lemons from Karwan Bazar for 2,500 BDT (12.50 BDT per lemon) and is now selling them at 60 BDT per hali, making a 10 BDT profit per hali.

Markets show several varieties of lemons. Smaller lemons are priced at 50 BDT per hali, while larger ones cost 70–80 BDT. Most buyers negotiate with vendors due to the high prices. Overall, prices have risen 30–40 BDT per hali over the past two weeks.

Rubel Howlader, a vendor at Mohammadpur Agricultural Market, said that two weeks ago a hali was sold for 20–30 BDT. Now, with the season ending, prices have increased as most farmers hold back lemons hoping for better prices during Ramadan.

Office worker Mohammad Shahjalal from Sheorapara shared that he paid 60 BDT for one hali after bargaining at Karwan Bazar, while two weeks ago he could buy a full dozen for the same price.

In short, the market is seeing a steep spike in lemon prices, making them costlier than many other vegetables just ahead of Ramadan.