The prices of eggs in Khulna have recently soared beyond the government-mandated rates, causing significant distress among consumers.
Despite official directives, local markets are witnessing egg prices reaching Tk 13.50 per piece, surpassing the government-set price of Tk 11.87. This means consumers are now paying Tk 1.53 more for each egg than the established rate.
Consumers have raised concerns about possible price manipulation by traders operating through syndicates. The Director General of Consumer Rights has announced that eggs must be sold at the government-set prices starting Wednesday, but many are skeptical about compliance.
Parvez, an egg trader from Chadkhali village in Paikgachha upazila, explained that the production costs for eggs far exceed the government-fixed price, making it unfeasible for traders to sell at that rate. Currently, in wholesale markets across Khulna, 100 eggs are priced at Tk 1,250.
Nimai Chandra, a farm owner in Batiaghata, highlighted the disparity faced by small farmers, stating that while larger companies benefit from government support, smaller farms receive little to no assistance. He pointed out that these larger companies are also driving up chicken prices through syndicates, putting immense pressure on small farms. Many in his area are closing down due to escalating chick prices, and Chandra fears that without government intervention, the entire industry could collapse.
