Photo: BSS

SATKHIRA, Aug 4, 2026 (BSS) - Bangladesh has imported at least 90 metric tons of green chilies from India through the Bhomra Land Port in Satkhira, marking the first shipment aimed at easing the recent surge in domestic prices.

By 6.00 pm on Monday, a total of 10 trucks carrying between 9 and 10 metric tons of green chilies each had entered the country through the port. Traders expect that continued imports will help stabilize supplies and bring down prices in local markets.

Confirming the import, Bhomra Customs Commissioner Md. Mostafizur Rahman told BSS that the consignments arrived throughout Monday and were released after completion of customs and duty formalities. The imported chilies have since been distributed to markets across the country.

According to traders, the government approved the import of green chilies from India on August 2 to ensure a steady supply in the domestic market. The government also decided to reduce the existing customs duties and taxes on the imports, they said, citing sources at the Ministry of Commerce.

Retail traders in Satkhira said that green chilies were selling at Taka 50 to Taka 60 per kilogram just two weeks ago. However, prices rose sharply in several phases, reaching Taka 250 to Taka 300 or more per kilogram, placing a significant burden on consumers.

Rajab Ali, General Secretary of the Satkhira Raw and Perishable Goods Traders' Association, said prolonged rainfall had submerged chili fields in Satkhira and neighboring districts, causing extensive crop damage. Production of other vegetables has also declined, contributing to the sharp rise in prices.

"Green chilies that were selling for Taka 50 per kilogram climbed to more than Taka 250 to Taka 300. With imports from India now underway, prices are expected to start declining from today," he said.

Abu Musa, General Secretary of the Bhomra C&F Agents Association, said the first consignment of 10 truckloads arrived on Monday, while larger shipments are expected on Tuesday.

"If imports continue on a regular basis, market supply will increase and prices are expected to return to normal levels," he added.