Consumers in Chattogram are facing steep price increases for essential food items on the first day of Ramadan, raising concerns over affordability for iftar and sehri meals.

A market survey found medium-sized lemons, which sold for Tk 20–40 two weeks ago, now priced above Tk 60.

Vendors said pre-Ramadan prices last year ranged from Tk 40–50, but this season, limited supply and heightened demand have pushed prices up to Tk 120.

Other vegetables have also seen notable gains. Eggplant and cucumber rose by Tk 20 per kilogram, now trading at Tk 80–120 and Tk 80–100, respectively.

Tomato and carrot prices increased by Tk 10 per kilogram, while green chilies are fetching Tk 140–160. Traders cited rising wholesale costs as a primary driver of retail price hikes.

Meat prices are climbing as well, straining budgets for low- and middle-income households. Broiler chicken, which sold for Tk 160–170 per kilogram two weeks ago, now costs Tk 200–220, while Sonali chicken is priced at Tk 320–350 per kilogram, up by Tk 30–40.

Farmers and sellers pointed to higher chickling prices and winter poultry mortality as key factors.

Fish such as tilapia, pangas, rui, and katla have also seen increases of Tk 20–50 per kilogram.

Authorities are stepping up monitoring to curb price manipulation.

Foiz Ullah, Deputy Director of the Department of Consumer Rights Protection, said syndicates are using phone networks to control markets, adding that raids and legal action are underway.

Chattogram Deputy Commissioner Jahidul Islam Miah met traders at the city’s wholesale hub in Khatungonj, urging them to maintain affordable prices.

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The Chattogram Metropolitan Police, alongside senior officials, conducted inspections of wholesale rates for onions, dates, lentils, sugar, chickpeas and other Ramadan essentials.

“Any attempt at artificial price hikes will be met with strict action,” DC Jahidul Islam said, warning that syndicate manipulation would not be tolerated.