Despite an 11 per cent increase in date imports this season, retail prices of several popular varieties have climbed sharply ahead of Ramadan, raising questions about whether reductions in duties and taxes are being passed on to consumers.
According to data from the National Board of Revenue (NBR), Bangladesh imported 49,807 tonnes of dates between 1 November and 17 February this year, compared with 44,716 tonnes during the same period last year. This represents an increase of 5,091 tonnes, or 11.4 per cent.
Import Overview
| Period (1 Nov–17 Feb) | Imports (tonnes) | Increase (tonnes) | Increase (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Last year | 44,716 | — | — |
| Current year | 49,807 | 5,091 | 11.4% |
Dates are an essential item for iftar during Ramadan, with comparatively affordable Zahidi dates particularly popular among lower and lower-middle-income households. A substantial portion of Bangladesh’s date imports consists of this variety. However, retail prices of Zahidi dates have risen by between Tk 50 and Tk 100 per kilogram even before the start of fasting.
Other varieties have also recorded notable increases. Dabass, Nakal, Mashrukh and Amber dates have seen price hikes ranging from Tk 50 to Tk 200 per kilogram compared with last year.
Retail Price Comparison
| Variety | Current Price (Tk/kg) | Last Year (Tk/kg) | Increase (Tk) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zahidi (retail) | 350 | 200 | +150 |
| Nakal | 360 | 280 | +80 |
| Mashrukh | 450 | 400 | +50 |
| Amber | 800 | 600 | +200 |
| Dabass | 500 | 400 | +100 |
In an effort to stabilise the market ahead of Ramadan, the government reduced the import duty on dates from 25 per cent to 15 per cent on 24 December. Advance income tax was also lowered from 10 per cent to 5 per cent, with the measures effective until 31 March. Nevertheless, the anticipated impact has yet to be reflected in retail markets.
Importers cite temporary supply disruptions as a key factor behind the price surge. A vessel carrying approximately 4,000 tonnes of dates from Thailand reportedly sank recently, with around 90 per cent of the cargo consisting of Zahidi dates. In addition, unloading operations at Chattogram Port were hampered for several days due to a work stoppage linked to leasing issues at the New Mooring Container Terminal, affecting overall supply.
However, traders maintain that the situation is improving. Between 15 and 17 February alone, 6,917 tonnes of dates were cleared through Chattogram Port, signalling a recovery in supply flows. Sirajul Islam, President of the Bangladesh Fresh Fruits Importers Association, expressed optimism that prices could ease within a week as new consignments arrive.
Meanwhile, the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) has begun selling dates nationwide at Tk 160 per kilogram, although purchases are capped at 500 grams per buyer. While this initiative offers limited relief to low-income consumers, market analysts suggest it may have only a modest effect on broader price levels.
Experts note that demand for dates during Ramadan more than doubles compared with the rest of the year. Even minor supply disruptions can therefore trigger disproportionate price increases, particularly when wholesale hikes are amplified at the retail level. Consequently, despite higher import volumes and reduced duties, consumers continue to face significant financial pressure in the run-up to the holy month.