The price of onions has crossed the Tk100 mark per kilogramme at the Chaktai–Khatunganj wholesale market in Chattogram, with rates soaring by Tk20–25 in just two days.
Locally grown onions were being sold for Tk90–105 per kg today (3 November) in the wholesale market while the price was Tk72–85 per kg on 30 and 31 October.
"There is a shortage of supply in the market. The amount of onions arriving in the markets is not sufficient. As imports have decreased and the local harvest season has ended, stock levels have dropped, leading to higher wholesale prices," said Idris Mia, general secretary of the Khatunganj Hamidullah Mia Market Traders Association.
Sellers said, suspension of Indian onion imports has tightened supply, creating market volatility.
Onion planting season begins in late October. However, this year onion was planted a little late in Pabna, Faridpur, Kushtia and Rajbari, delaying market arrivals. Traders warn delays in import approvals could further destabilise prices.