The market for polao rice in Bangladesh has become highly unstable, with prices rising sharply over the past month. Despite adequate supply, the price of various types of polao rice has increased by up to Tk 30 per kilogram and Tk 900 to Tk 2,000 per sack. Retailers and consumers have expressed frustration, blaming corporate groups and mill owners for creating an artificial crisis to raise prices. Traders reported that transportation and utility cost hikes have also contributed to the surge.

Corporate company owners have denied the allegations, attributing the price increase to reduced production caused by crop disease and higher fuel and electricity costs. Nabil Group’s managing director said some traders are exporting polao rice, suggesting that exports should be halted to stabilize the domestic market. Market visits in Dhaka revealed that both wholesale and retail prices have risen significantly, with branded rice reaching up to Tk 190 per kilogram.

Consumer rights advocates described the price hike as abnormal and criticized weak market monitoring. They noted that despite government tax reductions on essentials, consumers have not benefited, leaving middle- and lower-income groups under severe pressure.