Despite government efforts to enforce price caps, retailers nationwide are openly defying regulated rates for essential commodities. Recent data from the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) reveals a staggering  72.22% surge in potato prices and a 76.47% increase in onion prices over the past year(2022). The Ministry of Commerce’s price caps, which set potatoes at Tk35-36 per kg, local onions at Tk64-65 per kg, and eggs at Tk12 each, are being flouted, with eggs still selling for Tk13 each and potatoes ranging from Tk45-50 per kg.
The situation is not confined to Dhaka, as reports from various regions, including Cumilla, Savar, Brahmanbaria, Sylhet, Bogura, Kushtia, and Chattogram, confirm prices above government-set levels. Despite efforts by the National Consumer Rights Protection Directorate to monitor and fine overcharging traders, consumers lament the increasing cost of essential goods, calling for action against business syndicates and greater market oversight. Retailers argue they purchased goods at higher rates and would face financial losses by adhering to government-set prices.
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