Barisal Cattle Markets Face Sales Slump Amid Rising Prices
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With Eid-ul-Adha just one day away, livestock markets across southern Bangladesh—including major hubs in Barishal and Amtoli—are witnessing sluggish trade despite a steady influx of animals. While farmers and traders are reporting a higher volume of stock, the anticipated peak in sales has yet to materialize, leaving many anxious as the holiday approaches.
Market data indicates that cattle prices have surged significantly compared to last year, with buyers noting premiums of 10,000 to 20,000 taka per animal. Traders attribute these price hikes to rising transportation costs and increased expenditures on animal feed. At the Charmonai Madrasa grounds, one of the region’s largest markets, traders from surrounding areas have been operating around the clock since Sunday. Despite the presence of diverse stock, buyers are reporting difficulty finding animals that align with their budgets, particularly those in the middle-income demographic.
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The disparity between seller expectations and buyer purchasing power is pronounced. Traders such as Monir Hossain and Hossein, who have brought stock from Barguna and Pirojpur, report that customers remain hesitant, often spending days scouting for better deals before committing to a purchase. While demand remains stable for medium-sized cattle, large livestock continue to see slower interest. This trend has placed a strain on middle-class residents, many of whom describe the current market rates as nearly prohibitive for traditional sacrificial practices.
In the Amtoli market in Barguna, situated along the Payra River, the sentiment remains similar. Market director Niaz Morshed acknowledged that while sales volumes are lower than expected, price points are notably higher than in previous years. He noted that domestic cattle are seeing significantly higher demand than Indian imports, which have seen limited interest. Despite the high prices, some large-scale traders, such as Mahbubur Rahman, report having moved substantial inventory, suggesting that while the market is volatile, interest remains active for those willing to pay the premium.
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Official data from the Barishal Divisional Department of Livestock indicates a surplus of animals for the region. Across six districts, approximately 39,000 farmers prepared over 468,000 animals, comfortably exceeding the local demand by more than 67,000 heads. This abundance has not necessarily translated into lower prices, but it has shifted consumer behavior.
Reflecting a broader change in shopping habits, many urban residents in Barishal are increasingly bypassing traditional markets in favor of direct-from-farm purchases. Farms such as MEP Agro have seen strong demand, with nearly all of their stock sold in advance. By offering weight-based pricing and home delivery services, these farms are providing an alternative to the perceived risks and logistical burdens of traditional cattle markets. As the final countdown to Eid begins, the industry remains hopeful that last-minute shoppers will clear the remaining inventory from the regional markets.
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