Against the backdrop of a surge in the prices of onions, the Bangladesh Trade and Tariff Commission (BTTC) has suggested that the government allow imports of the bulbs to stabilise the market.

Retail prices of the popular item climbed by 53 percent to Tk 110-120 per kilogramme in Dhaka's markets yesterday from Tk 70-80 per kg a week ago, according to Trading Corporation of Bangladesh data.

The BTTC attributed the price spiral partly to delays in planting the early season varieties, locally termed 'Murikata' onions, which could delay harvesting and affect market supply.

BTTC Chairman Moinul Khan said the commission found certain intermediaries to be trying to destabilise the market by creating an artificial shortage.

"We have recommended granting prompt approval for limited onion imports," he said.

At present, the prices of onions are lower in India than those in the local market. Importing onions from neighbouring countries could help ease domestic prices.

Even after paying import duties, imported onions could be sold in Bangladesh for less than Tk 50 per kilogramme.

Currently, importers are required to pay a total of 10 percent import duty on onions. Since prices in neighbouring countries remain relatively low, the BTTC said there is no need to reduce the existing duty.

It added that swift imports would help stabilise local supply and prices.

According to a BTTC report, the average price of onions in March 2025 was Tk 42 per kilogram, which soared by about 150 percent to Tk 105 in November.

The report said that onion prices have historically jumped by over 100 percent between March-April and November over the past three years, underscoring the need for a long-term solution to this recurring problem.