The prices of two essential perishable farm products-onions and potatoes-have been steadily rising in the backdrop of the end of the harvest season. These two items are indispensable in our daily meals. Potatoes and onions are deeply embedded in our food culture; our rice-based cuisine often includes mashed potatoes mixed with chopped onions as a staple side dish.
Shockingly, prices increased by Tk 20 per kilogram within just a week following the month of Ramadan, leaving consumers bewildered. As regular consumers, we are not demanding a drastic price drop, but rather, we seek price stability.
It is important to recognise that farmers deserve a fair price for their produce. At the same time, consumers should be able to buy these essential items at reasonable prices. Currently, prices are relatively stable, which is beneficial for both parties. However, sudden price hikes driven by unscrupulous traders would destabilise the market and affect everyone.
Often, some dishonest wholesalers hoard fresh produce for extended periods to create an artificial shortage, disrupting smooth supply chains and inflating prices. To prevent this, we need a robust and continuous market monitoring system that can identify and hold accountable those who are responsible for such manipulation.
Monitoring must be frequent, thorough so that immediate measures can be taken to curb unjustified price hikes. The Department of Agricultural Marketing (DAM), with support from the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) and law enforcement agencies, should form a strong and active monitoring team. This team should regularly inspect key market centers and help maintain price stability.
Moreover, the team should visit warehouses to detect illegal hoarding and take immediate on-the-spot action when necessary. If the current price trend of onions and potatoes continues without undue interference, both farmers and consumers will remain satisfied, as production costs and purchasing power remain aligned within acceptable limits.
Md.Refatul Hossain
Additional Director (retd)
Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE)
Faridpur Region
