Buyers relieved as cattle prices drop ahead of Eid-ul-Adha

With only a day left before the Muslim festival of Eid-ul-Adha, temporary cattle markets in Dhaka are seeing a surge of buyers. Market-goers are rushing to purchase sacrificial animals within their means, and many are expressing satisfaction with this year’s comparatively lower prices.

A visit to several markets on Thursday revealed that cattle prices have dropped by Tk 20,000 to Tk 30,000 per 100,000 compared to last year.

Confirming the trend, traders say they are selling at reduced margins, while customers are happy to secure animals at more affordable rates.

Md Israfi, a resident of Badda, purchased a cow for Tk 120,000 after bargaining down from Tk 160,000. “Last year, this size of cow would’ve cost Tk 150,000 or more. I’m happy with this year’s price,” he said.

Others at the Merul Badda market reported similar deals, with medium-sized cows selling between Tk 120,000 and Tk 130,000.

Traders from outside Dhaka, such as Jamal Hossain from Mymensingh and Kamal Hossain from Jamalpur, also reported lower prices and tighter profit margins this year.

“Compared to last year, we’re selling at Tk 20,000 to Tk 30,000 less per 100,000. Buyers are bargaining hard, and we’re selling for minimal profit,” he said.

Kamal, who brought 12 cows to the market, shared that smaller cattle that fetched over Tk 100,000 last year are now attracting offers of just Tk 70,000–75,000. “I’ve sold half my stock already. If I get small profits, I’ll sell the rest too,” he added.

Many buyers arrived early to avoid the last-minute rush and potential price hikes. Md Mahiuddin from Rampura said, “Last year I bought a cow for Tk 220,000 at the last minute. This time, I found a better one for Tk 160,000 a day early.”

However, concerns remain about cattle supply. Due to the absence of markets in Aftabnagar and Meradia this year, Merul Badda is overcrowded and has a limited number of animals. Some fear that if demand continues to rise, there could be a shortage, pushing prices up at the last minute.

Papiya Akhter, a cattle buyer from Banasree, shared her positive experience: “I’ve been buying cattle myself for four years. This year I got a good cow for Tk 130,000—last year, the same would have cost over Tk 150,000. I had a budget of Tk 180,000, so I’m happy.”

“Honestly, price isn’t the main thing,” she added. “Qurbani is about seeking God’s satisfaction. Still, getting a good cow within budget is a blessing,” she noted.