Bangladesh authorizes Indian green chili imports to curb soaring prices

Bangladesh has authorized imports of green chilies from India after heavy rainfall damaged local crops, tightened supplies and pushed prices to 400 taka (approximately $3.23) in domestic markets.

At Hili land port, 11 importers received permission to bring in 3,400 metric tons, according to Ujjal Hossain, sub-assistant officer at the port’s plant quarantine center.

“As of 12:30 p.m., 11 importers at the Hili land port have received permission to import 3,400 tonnes of green chilies,” Hossain said.

Importer Nur Islam said businesses were contacting Indian exporters and opening letters of credit, with shipments expected to begin by the afternoon or the following day. Islam said he had received permission to import 500 tons.

“Once imports from India begin, domestic market prices will drop significantly,” he said.

The last green chili shipment from India through Hili arrived Nov. 20 last year.