Published: 12:19 AM, 04 November 2026
Food Prices Move Beyond Ordinary Citizens' Capability
The rising prices of essential food items have become a serious concern for ordinary citizens in Bangladesh. The continuous increase in the prices of rice, vegetables, fish, meat, eggs, cooking oil, onions and other daily necessities has made life increasingly difficult for low- and middle-income families. What was once considered a manageable household expense has now become a major financial burden for millions of people.
In Bangladesh, food is the largest component of household expenditure, particularly for people with limited incomes. However, the prices of essential commodities have increased beyond the purchasing capacity of many ordinary citizens. Even a simple visit to the kitchen market can become a source of frustration for consumers. Many families are struggling to maintain their regular diets, while some have been forced to reduce their consumption of nutritious food.
The most vulnerable groups are day labourers, rickshaw pullers, garment workers, small business owners, private-sector employees and low-income households. Their earnings often remain unchanged despite the rising cost of living. As a result, they are finding it increasingly difficult to manage rent, transportation, education, healthcare and food expenses simultaneously.
Several factors contribute to the continuous rise in food prices. These include supply-chain disruptions, higher transportation costs, market syndicates, inadequate market monitoring, seasonal shortages and increased production costs. In some cases, dishonest traders and middlemen take advantage of market instability to make excessive profits. Weak supervision and irregularities in the distribution system also contribute to consumers' suffering.
The government has taken various initiatives to control market prices and support low-income people. However, these measures are not always sufficient to bring meaningful relief to ordinary consumers. Stronger market monitoring, strict action against illegal hoarding, improved transportation and storage facilities, and fair pricing mechanisms are urgently needed.
The authorities should also strengthen programs such as the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) to ensure that essential commodities reach disadvantaged people at affordable prices. Farmers should receive fair prices for their products, while consumers should be protected from unnecessary price increases.
Food is a basic human necessity, not a luxury. No citizen should have to struggle to afford three meals a day. Ensuring affordable food prices is therefore not merely an economic responsibility but also a social and moral obligation.
