The onion market is witnessing relief as essential commodity imports are now enjoying duty-free privileges and new onions are arriving in the market.
A visit to markets in Segunbagicha, Malibagh, Rampura, and Badda on Saturday revealed this trend.
In the retail market, local and imported onions are being sold at prices ranging from Tk55 to Tk90 per kilogram, depending on the variety.
Market observations show that local onions are priced at Tk70–80 per kg, while Pabna’s special onions are being sold for Tk85–90 per kg.
Freshly harvested “Muri Kata” onions are available at Tk55–60 per kg, and Indian onions at Tk65–70 per kg.
Meanwhile, large garlic is being sold at Tk240–260 per kg.
In wholesale markets such as Karwan Bazar, onions are being sold at Tk2,000–2,500 per maund, depending on the variety.
Previously, to control the spiraling prices of onions, the National Board of Revenue (NBR) completely removed customs and regulatory duties on onion imports.
This duty-free provision and the arrival of new onions have had a positive impact on the market.
When asked about the onion prices, Mahim, a trader from Malibagh, said: “Onions are now being imported from India, and new onions have started arriving in the market, causing prices to drop.”
Similarly, Jalal, a vendor at Karwan Bazar, said that compared to last week, prices in the retail market have dropped by Tk5 per kg.
New potatoes are now being sold at Tk38–45 per kg, while early-harvested “Muri Kata” onions are priced at Tk40–45 per kg.
Salam, a customer, shared his perspective: “With the abundant arrival of new potatoes and onions in the market, prices are declining. Prices might drop further next week.”
He added: “Relief has returned to the onion market. While I am a consumer, I am also involved in agriculture. Since the onion season has begun, the government should monitor the market to ensure that prices do not drop too low. If necessary, measures such as re-imposing import duties could be taken to prevent losses for farmers.”
