Rice prices in Dhaka have increased by Tk 1-3 per kg in the past week, with coarse rice reaching Tk 56/kg and fine rice ranging from Tk 65-80/kg. Wholesalers attribute the surge to higher prices charged by rice millers, who, in turn, blame elevated paddy costs.
The scarcity of rice supply has led traders to stock up, exacerbating the price hike. Despite the recent increase, experts note that current prices remain lower than those of the previous year. Interestingly, the food ministry’s data contradicts market reports. Farmers in Dinajpur report millers charging an additional Tk 40-50 per 50kg sack due to heightened paddy expenses.
The Auto Rice Mill Owners’ Association attributes the rise to a shortage of paddy supply, particularly for coarse rice. An alternative explanation by experts suggests urban residents may be stockpiling rice in anticipation of potential political unrest.
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