Consumers suffer as edible oil prices rise

Consumer suffering increased as edible oil prices continued to soar over the last couple of weeks in the capital’s kitchen markets despite the government setting the rates on September 5.

In several kitchen markets on Friday, non-bottled soybean oil sold at Tk 140-145 per litre, palm oil at Tk 125-130 per litre, and a five-litre bottle of soybean oil at Tk 740-750.

But on September 5, the commerce ministry set non-bottled soybean oil prices at Tk 129 per litre, palm oil at Tk 116 per litre, and a five-litre bottle of soybean oil at Tk 728.

At the Karwan Bazar market, non-bottled soybean oil prices increased by Tk 11-16 in the last couple of weeks while that of a five-litre bottle rose by Tk 10.

Market insiders said they had increased edible oil prices due to a rise in demand, but supply was available.

In Gulshan market, a five-litre bottle of Fresh soybean oil sold at Tk 750.

Md Nurul Haque, proprietor of Haque Varieties Store in Mirpur 1, said edible oil prices had risen this week.

He also said bottled soybean oil prices had risen more than that of non-bottled one.

Customer Sumon Ahmed said commodity prices were very high now.

“Edible oil prices have risen so much that it is no longer affordable for us. We urge the government to take steps in this regard,” he said.

The prices of other essential commodities, including vegetables, were also higher compared to last week.

Pointed gourd, eggplant, okra, teasel gourd, snake gourd, and other vegetables sold above Tk 50-70 per kg.

Bitter gourd sold at Tk 50-60 per kg and bottle gourd at Tk 45-55 per piece while aubergine sold for Tk 55-65 per kg. Broiler egg sold at Tk 115-120 per dozen.