Prices of key consumer goods have increased in markets across Bangladesh ahead of the upcoming Ramadan, with the highest jumps seen in dates, green chilies, bananas, cucumbers, and lemons. The Consumer Association of Bangladesh (CAB) attributed the rise to reduced government monitoring and recent disruptions in product transportation, which created supply shortages. CAB’s senior vice president S.M. Nazrul Hossain said controlling the market is a major challenge for the new government, as unscrupulous traders often exploit the season.

Traders, however, blamed international price hikes and instability at Chattogram port for the increase, particularly in dates. Field visits to major Dhaka markets found Zahidi dates selling at Tk 280 per kg, up from Tk 180 last year, while green chilies rose by Tk 40 per kg. Imported fruits such as apples, oranges, and grapes also became costlier by Tk 20–60 per kg. Despite higher imports of fresh dates this fiscal year, prices remain elevated.

The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) said the country has sufficient stocks of edible oil, sugar, onions, and lentils, urging authorities to curb extortion in supply chains and consumers to avoid panic buying to maintain market stability.