Fair-Price Meat Sales for Ramadan

The government has announced a renewed programme to supply essential animal-protein foods at subsidised prices throughout the month of Ramadan, aiming to cushion households from seasonal price pressures and ensure steady access to nutritious staples. As in previous years, beef, processed chicken, milk and eggs will be sold at fixed rates through designated outlets in Dhaka and across the country. Officials say the scheme is designed to stabilise markets at a time when demand typically rises sharply, often leading to sudden price hikes that disproportionately affect low- and middle-income families.

Under the approved pricing framework, beef will be sold at Tk 650 per kilogramme, processed chicken at Tk 250 per kilogramme, milk at Tk 80 per litre, and eggs at Tk 8 per piece. The decision was taken at a meeting of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock held on Sunday, 1 February, to finalise operational plans for Ramadan fair-price sales. The ministry confirmed that the number of sales points will be expanded this year in response to last year’s high turnout and to reduce queues and travel distances for consumers.

The Adviser to the Ministry, Farida Akhtar, instructed implementing agencies to ensure timely supply, transparent pricing displays and strict quality control at every outlet. Particular emphasis was placed on food safety standards, cold-chain management for meat and milk, and accurate weighing to protect consumers. The Directorate of Livestock Services has been tasked with coordinating procurement, storage and distribution, while working closely with approved suppliers and processors.

According to the Director General of the Directorate of Livestock Services, Dr Md Abu Sufian, preparatory work is already under way to secure adequate stocks and maintain a smooth distribution chain throughout Ramadan. He noted that consultations with supplier partners have concluded and that, compared with last year, more locations will be covered to improve access. This year, 48 sales points will operate nationwide, including mobile and fixed stalls in high-footfall areas of the capital and key district towns. Authorities expect daily replenishment to minimise shortages during peak hours in the late afternoon and early evening.

Market analysts observe that such government-led fair-price schemes often serve as a reference point for private retailers, helping to temper excessive mark-ups during festive seasons. Consumer groups have welcomed the move, while urging vigilant monitoring to prevent diversion of subsidised products and to ensure that the intended beneficiaries—ordinary households—can purchase reasonable quantities without hoarding. Officials indicated that spot checks and coordination with consumer-rights bodies will be intensified during Ramadan.

Approved Ramadan Fair-Price List

By expanding the network of outlets and reaffirming fixed prices, the government hopes to ease household budgets during Ramadan, improve dietary intake of protein, and contribute to short-term market stability.