Vegetable Prices Soar, Green Chilli Hits Tk350/kg; Consumers Struggle as Rains & Supply Issues

On Friday (October 10th), the price of vegetables was seen in different markets of the capital.Vegetable prices in the capital's kitchen markets have surged sharply, placing a heavy burden on consumers and contributing to a rise in overall food inflation. Key findings indicate:

The cost of most common vegetables is selling above Tk80 per kilogram, with many items nearing or exceeding Tk100 Green chillies have seen a dramatic jump, currently retailing between Tk300 and Tk350 per kg, up by over Tk100 in just a week, with some reports even hitting Tk400-450/kg. Round eggplant has reached up to Tk220 per kg, while carrots and tomatoes are also selling for over Tk100/kg. Vendors and wholesalers blame heavy rainfall and flood damage to crops, seasonal supply shortages (transition from summer to winter vegetables), and disrupted imports (e.g., due to Puja border closures).

Consumers and market analysts point to weak market monitoring, middlemen profiteering, extortion on highways, and alleged "syndicate manipulation" as major factors creating a significant gap between farm-gate and retail prices. Shoppers are expressing significant distress, with many being forced to cut down purchase quantities—buying as little as 250-500 grams instead of a kilogram—to manage tight household budgets.

This ongoing price volatility is a major public concern. Follow up with relevant market monitoring authorities for their planned intervention measures.