Consumers in Cox’s Bazar are struggling with high prices of essential commodities, including rice, onions, lentils, garlic, ginger and green chillies. Even with Tk1,000 in hand, many shoppers say they cannot afford everything they need.
Shoppers at Cox’s Bazar’s Boro Bazar said they must calculate every purchase carefully to manage household expenses. Despite needing various essentials, many are having to buy smaller quantities to stay within their budgets.
“I come to the market wanting to buy many things, but I have to return with only a few items for Tk1,000. It is not possible to buy everything I need,” said shopper Ahsan Habib.
According to the price list at Boro Bazar, fine Aman rice sells for Tk72–75 per kilogram, medium-grade rice for Tk56–60, and coarse rice for Tk48–50. Local onions cost Tk60–64 per kilogram, while mung beans sell for Tk122–128.
Local garlic is priced at Tk140–150 per kilogram, imported garlic at Tk160–170, local ginger at Tk154–174 and green chillies at Tk120–200.
Jewel, a trader at Boro Bazar, said wholesalers charge higher prices and transportation costs add to the expense of bringing goods to Cox’s Bazar, affecting retail prices.
Traders said retail prices depend on wholesale rates, transport costs and supply conditions.
Consumers have called for stronger and regular market monitoring and an uninterrupted supply of essential commodities to ease pressure on household budgets.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Mohammad Morshed
