BM Desk : The Muslim holiday of Eid-ul-Adha is just one day away, and Dhaka’s makeshift cattle markets are experiencing a spike in demand. Many market-goers are expressing happiness with this year’s somewhat lower pricing, and they are hurrying to buy sacrifice animals within their means.
In comparison to previous year, cattle prices have decreased by Tk 20,000 to Tk 30,000 per 100,000, according to a visit to multiple marketplaces on Thursday. Customers are pleased to obtain animals at lower prices, and traders confirm the trend by stating that they are selling at lower margins.

Taj Uddin, a resident of Rampura, acquired a cow for Tk 130,000 after negotiating down from Tk 160,000. “Last year, a cow of this size would have cost Tk 150,000 or more. I’m pleased with this year’s pricing,” he remarked.

Others at the Merul Badda market reported similar transactions, with medium-sized cows being sold for between Tk 120,000 and Tk 130,000.

Traders from outside Dhaka, including Jamal Hossain from Mymensingh and Kamal Hossain from Jamalpur, also noted lower prices and tighter profit margins this year. “In comparison to last year, we’re selling for Tk 20,000 to Tk 30,000 less per 100,000. Buyers are negotiating fiercely, and we’re making minimal profits,” Jamal stated.

Kamal, who brought 12 cows to the market, mentioned that smaller cattle that sold for over Tk 100,000 last year are now receiving offers of only Tk 70,000–75,000. “I’ve already sold half of my stock. If I can make small profits, I’ll sell the rest as well,” he added.

Many buyers arrived early to avoid the last-minute rush and potential price increases. Md Mahiuddin from Rampura commented, “Last year, I purchased a cow for Tk 220,000 at the last moment. This time, I found a better one for Tk 160,000 a day in advance.”

However, there are ongoing concerns regarding cattle supply. The lack of markets in Aftabnagar and Meradia this year has led to overcrowding at Merul Badda, which has a limited number of animals. Some worry that if demand continues to grow, there could be a shortage, resulting in price hikes at the last minute.

Papiya Akhter, a cattle buyer from Banasree, shared her positive experience: “I’ve been purchasing cattle myself for four years. This year, I found a good cow for Tk 130,000—last year, the same would have cost over Tk 150,000. I had a budget of Tk 180,000, so I’m satisfied.”

“Honestly, price isn’t the primary concern,” she added. “Qurbani is about seeking God’s satisfaction. Nevertheless, finding a good cow within budget is a blessing,” she noted.