Rice prices in Khulna a major city and a division in Bangladesh have surged abnormally, ranging from Tk 53 to Tk 80 per kilogram, despite adequate stock and smooth supply across the district. However, declining such allegations of rise in rice prices, officials said that rice mills hold ample reserves, while 84,000 metric tons are stored in 10 government warehouses. Bumper harvest in boro, regular OMS (Open Market Sale) distribution, and imports through Benapole, Bhomra, and Chattogram ports have kept supply stable further the government also slashed import duty from 25% to 15%.
Despite of the adequate supply, traders allege that corporate houses and auto rice mill owners are hoarding paddy procured during the boro season, manipulating the market by selling rice at inflated rates. Small traders and consumers also complain that they have been left at the mercy of large millers. Coarse rice is officially priced at Tk 53-55 per kg and fine varieties at Tk 73-74, however in city markets, some fine rice such as Paijam is selling for as high as Tk 80 per kg. Farmers said they are forced to sell paddy immediately after harvest, leaving corporate millers to stockpile and control the market later.