Kitchen markets in Dhaka poised for full normalcy this week

Kitchen markets in Dhaka remained largely quiet on Friday as many holidaymakers have yet to return to the capital. Traders expect full normalcy to resume this week following the end of Eid-ul-Fitr holidays.

Visits to various markets revealed lower prices for several essential items, including vegetables, due to reduced demand and limited consumer turnout. Many shops were partially closed, and supply remained constrained.

Eid-ul-Fitr was celebrated nationwide on 21 March, with government holidays ending on Monday.

However, the city is still in a holiday mode, as residents extended their leave, taking advantage of the seven-day Eid break combined with the 26 March public holiday and the weekend.

“The capital will gradually regain its normal pace over the next two to three days,” said Ripon Mia, a shopkeeper at Meradia Haat in Banasree. Despite the main market complex being open, many shops remained shut due to low customer flow.

Prices of essentials either declined or remained stable. Beef, which had risen to Tk750–850 per kg ahead of Eid, has dropped to Tk700–750 per kg. Broiler chicken and eggs remain stable at Tk110–120 per dozen.

Fish prices, which usually fall during Eid as consumers favour meat, continue to decline. Medium-sized Hilsa previously sold at Tk1,500–2,000 per piece, while larger Hilsa dropped from Tk2,800–3,000 per kg to Tk2,000–2,200 per kg. Other fish varieties also saw lower prices amid limited supply and demand.

Vegetable prices showed slight decreases: cucumbers Tk30–40 per kg, green chillies Tk80–100, carrots Tk50, beans Tk60, and bottle gourds Tk40–60 per piece. Onion is priced at Tk40 per kg, potato Tk20, and tomato Tk30–40. Early summer vegetables have begun arriving at higher prices.