After peppers, potato prices in Bangladesh are now also rising explosively

The fresh produce market in Bangladesh has become quite volatile. The price of potatoes rose to 45-70 Tk per kg on Sunday, depending on the variety. This means a price increase of 5.0-8.0 Tk per kg in a week and 32-42% in a month. In addition, the price volatility of green pepper, tomato, ginger and garlic continued unabated. Green pepper was sold at Tk 300-450 per kg in combination with low imports and huge drop in local production. Only 671 tons of pepper could be imported, while the Department of Agriculture had authorized 52,480 tons to be imported, according to the Plant Quarantine Wing. Meanwhile, the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection (DNCRP) said it would take legal action against a number of superstores selling green pepper at extortionate prices. As officials debated the prices of peppers, ginger and sugar, potato prices skyrocketed on Sunday. Md Farid, seller ...