Aromatic rice prices have doubled in Rajshahi division due to heatwaves affecting last Aman harvest and higher electricity costs at mills.
<cite index="30-1,30-2,30-3">Aromatic rice prices have approximately doubled in Rajshahi division, with much of the country's aromatic rice produced from BRRI-34, known as Chinigura paddy, and current market supplies coming mainly from last Aman season's harvest.</cite>
<cite index="30-4,30-12">The last production season was affected by severe heatwaves and a lack of rainfall in parts of northern Bangladesh, reducing aromatic paddy yields.</cite> <cite index="30-5">Large rice processors purchased paddy at relatively high prices early in the season and stocked it, creating supply pressure for smaller mills and the open market.</cite>
<cite index="30-7,30-15">Higher electricity bills, milling expenses and transport costs have further increased production and distribution costs.</cite> <cite index="30-6,30-14">Aromatic rice requires specialised processing and polishing.</cite>
<cite index="30-8,30-16">The price increases have changed the way many families buy the rice, traditionally associated with pulao, biryani and special occasions.</cite> This development comes as farming families across northern Bangladesh, including Naogaon district, continue to face challenges from climate impacts and rising input costs affecting agricultural production and household budgets.