Chicken prices in the capital have risen sharply by 15-20 per cent within a week ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr, putting added pressure on consumers already dealing with high living costs. The sudden increase has raised concerns over supply disruptions and possible market irregularities.
A visit to key wholesale markets such as Karwan Bazar, Kaptan Bazar and Jatrabari revealed that prices of different chicken varieties have increased by Tk60 to Tk120 per kilogram in recent days. At the wholesale level, Pakistani cock Sonali chicken is currently selling at Tk330-340 per kg, while hybrid Sonali is priced between Tk300 and Tk320.
Retail prices are even higher. In areas including Motijheel, Shantinagar, Malibagh, Rampura and Badda, Pakistani cock Sonali is being sold at Tk380-400 per kg, and hybrid Sonali at Tk340-360. Broiler chicken has also seen a steep rise, jumping from around Tk160 per kg earlier to Tk220-240. Meanwhile, local (deshi) chicken is now selling at Tk700-720 per kg.
Traders have attributed the price hike to transport delays and increased supply costs. However, retailers claim that limited supply from wholesalers ahead of Eid is also driving up prices.
Consumers have expressed frustration over the sharp rise, while the Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB) has urged stronger market monitoring, alleging that some traders are taking advantage of the situation.
