Orange prices nearly double from wholesale to retail markets

A stark price disparity has emerged between wholesale and retail orange markets in Bangladesh, with retailers charging nearly 85 percent more than wholesale rates. While wholesale markets are moving oranges at Tk 190 per kilogramme, shopkeepers are selling the same produce to consumers at Tk 350 per kilogramme.

The substantial difference between wholesale and retail prices points to significant intermediary costs and markups across the supply chain. Retailers cite transportation, storage, spoilage, and operational expenses as factors contributing to the higher retail price, though the magnitude of the increase has drawn attention from market observers.

This pricing pattern is not unusual in Bangladesh's agricultural markets, where multiple layers of distribution—including wholesalers, traders, and retailers—add costs before produce reaches consumers. However, the current markup on oranges exemplifies the challenges faced by regular buyers seeking affordable fresh produce.

Consumer advocates have called for greater transparency in produce pricing, while traders argue that the margin is necessary to sustain their businesses amid rising operational costs. The situation underscores ongoing concerns about price inflation in the retail food market across the country.