High Prices of Fish, Chicken and Eggs Put Pressure on Consumers

Consumers in Dhaka are struggling with rising prices of fish, chicken and eggs. The increased cost of these essential food items has put additional pressure on household budgets, particularly for low- and middle-income families.

On Friday (August 21), broiler chicken was selling for around Tk 190 per kilogram in different markets across the capital. Sonali chicken was priced at around Tk 320 per kilogram, while local chicken was selling for as much as Tk 650 per kilogram. Farm eggs were being sold at Tk 130 to Tk 150 per dozen.

Fish prices have also remained high. Most varieties of fish are now selling for more than Tk 200 per kilogram, making it increasingly difficult for low-income consumers to afford protein-rich food.

Consumers said their incomes have not increased in line with the rising cost of daily necessities. As a result, many families are cutting back on their purchases of fish, chicken and eggs.

Traders attributed the higher prices to supply constraints and increased transportation costs. Consumers, however, called for stronger market monitoring and effective measures to bring prices under control.