B Mirror Report : Over the past week, rice and pulses have seen sharp price increases in the capital’s marketplaces. Specifically, within a week, the cost of local (small-grain) lentils increased by up to Tk 20 per kilogram. In the meantime, the prices of old rice have increased by Tk 3 to Tk 5 per kg prior to the entrance of fresh rice in the market, which is uncomfortable for regular customers.

This price trend was observed after visiting several markets in the capital.

Within a week, the prices of Miniket and Nazirshail rice have increased by up to Tk 5 per kg. The price of Manjur and Sagar brand Miniket rice has risen by Tk 3–4 to Tk 83–84 per kg. Rashid Miniket has increased from Tk 72 to Tk 75 per kg, non-branded Miniket is selling at Tk 65–70 per kg, and premium Miniket brand Mozammel has gone up by Tk 1–2 to Tk 85–86 per kg.

Similarly, the prices of Nazirshail rice have also increased. Depending on the variety, local Nazirshail rice is selling at Tk 72–85 per kg, which is Tk 3–4 higher than a week ago. Imported Nazirshail rice has also risen by up to Tk 3 per kg and is now selling at Tk 75–78 per kg.

At this time of the year, Aus, Aman, and Nazirshail rice are usually expected to arrive in the market. Retailers said that typically, after the arrival of new rice, the price of old rice increases by Tk 1–2 per kg each year.

However, this year, even before the new rice has reached the market, the prices of old rice have already gone up by Tk 3–4 per kg. New rice is expected to start reaching retail shops within the next week. Retailers fear that once the new rice arrives, the prices of old rice may rise further.