In Bangladesh, the price of onions has surged to nearly 100 taka per kilogram. However, the interim government led by Mohammad Yunus abruptly imposed a ban on importing onions from India at half the price. This decision has created a silent crisis along the border, with approximately 30,000 tons of onions decaying in warehouses from Mahadipur to Hili.
Since Yunus took office, political circles have accused his administration of displaying an anti-India stance, and these allegations have become more potent. Despite skyrocketing onion prices in Bangladesh, a direct ban on Indian onion imports has now been enforced, affecting not only Bangladeshi consumers but also putting Indian traders at risk.
Following reliable reports from Bangladeshi merchants, Indian exporters had stocked up onions in anticipation of continued trade. Yet, due to the sudden ban, all this stock is now beginning to rot in warehouses. Photos from border points like Mahadipur, Hili, and Sonamajid show a consistent picture of distress.
On November 16, the Sonamajid Import-Export Association stated that the Ministry of Agricultural Extension has been controlling import permissions for Indian onions over the past few days. Initially, some importers were allocated permissions for 50 tons, while others received 30 tons. However, the Yunus administration abruptly halted the entire process, claiming that their goal was to protect the interests of local farmers.
The situation for exporters is different. During this time of year, the demand for onions in Bangladesh is always high, with 30 to 35 truckloads shipped daily from India. Consequently, traders had preemptively stocked large quantities. Reports indicate that this year, production in Bangladesh has increased, thereby reducing the government’s reliance on Indian onions.
One exporter from Mahadipur expressed frustration, stating, “I received an order and brought onions from Nachik. Suddenly, the ban came! Now, I had to store them in a warehouse near the port, and they are starting to rot. I’m forced to sell at six taka per kilogram. I brought in four truckloads-this is a massive loss.”
A Bangladeshi importer also shared his disappointment: “We are ready to buy Indian onions, but we cannot do so due to government orders. If a clearance certificate is issued, we will start importing immediately.”
The situation at the border reflects anger, anxiety, and chaos. The Yunus administration’s unstable decisions are increasing losses for both countries, raising concerns that this could further deteriorate relations between Dhaka and Delhi.
Original Source: https://assam.nenow.in/reportedly-30-thousand-tons-of-onions-rotten-at-the-border-for-younus-governments-decision/
Category: অসম,আন্ত: ৰাষ্ট্ৰীয়,উত্তৰ-পূব,দেশ,বাণিজ্য,বাংলাদেশ,শীর্ষ সংবাদ
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Publish Date: 2025-11-29 13:21:00
