Prices of both marine and farmed fish have increased at Boro Bazar in Cox’s Bazar ahead of Ramadan, with traders attributing the hike to higher demand for meals at sunset and before dawn.
A visit to the market showed that among popular marine varieties, hilsa is selling at Tk 1,400 to Tk 2,200 per kilogram depending on size. Pomfret is priced between Tk 900 and Tk 1,400 per kilogram, while maittta fish is selling for Tk 600 to Tk 850.
Large-sized shrimp are being sold at Tk 900 to Tk 1,600 per kilogram, with medium-sized shrimp available for Tk 600 to Tk 800.
Farmed fish prices have also remained elevated. Rohu is selling at Tk 350 to Tk 450 per kilogram, catla at Tk 380 to Tk 500, tilapia at Tk 220 to Tk 280, and pangas at Tk 200 to Tk 260.
Salim Ullah, a fish trader at Boro Bazar, said families tend to arrange more elaborate meals during Ramadan. Demand for fried fish and other fish-based dishes increases, particularly for the evening meal to break the fast. “As demand rises, prices have also gone up slightly,” he said.
Consumers complained that they are paying Tk 50 to Tk 200 more per kilogram compared with a few weeks ago. Traders, however, cited higher costs of deep-sea fishing, weather-related challenges, and increased transportation expenses as contributing factors.
Market insiders believe prices may ease somewhat midway through Ramadan if supply conditions improve.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Mohammad Morshed
