Published : 04 Aug 2026, 04:44 PM
Updated : 08 Sep 2026, 09:30 AM
Imports of green chillies from India have begun through the Benapole Land Port amid an unusual surge in green chilli prices in Dhaka and other markets across Bangladesh.
On Monday, the first consignment—9.2 metric tonnes—entered Bangladesh on an Indian truck through Benapole.
After completing all port formalities, the imported chilies were dispatched to Dhaka the same night. The consignment was imported by Shimu Enterprise, while customs clearance was handled by the C&F agent Shimu Shipping Lines.
Shamim Hossain, director (traffic) of the Benapole Land Port, said: "As soon as the truck carrying the chillies arrived at the port, we completed the necessary documentation quickly and arranged for its release. Several more trucks loaded with green chillies are waiting on the other side of the border to enter Bangladesh."
Green chilies, a cooking staple in Bangladesh, are currently selling for Tk 320 to Tk 360 per kilogram in various markets in the capital. Just last week, the same quality of chilies was selling for around Tk 200 per kilogram.
According to traders, the sharp price increase is due to continuous rainfall, waterlogging, and flooding in different parts of the country, which have disrupted production and reduced supplies to wholesale markets.
Agriculture Minister Amin Ur Rashid said that the government has reduced the existing import duty on green chillies and granted permission for their import.
Importer Shahjahan said that his total import cost is approximately Tk 135 per kilogram.
"If imports increase, the market price of green chillies will come down. However, harassment at customs and complications in the clearance process are forcing us to pay higher duties," he said.
He also alleged that importers are suffering financial losses because the increased customs-related costs are raising the overall import expenses.
On Monday, green chillies were selling for Tk 300 per kilogram at the Benapole wholesale vegetable market.
