Dhaka, March 3 -- A broad-based slowdown in demand has dragged down prices of key farm products---potatoes, onions and eggs---pushing thousands of farmers into losses for a second straight year.

This raises concerns among economists about a possible ripple effect on employment, real wages and overall economic growth.

From the potato fields of Nilphamari to onion farms in Pabna and poultry sheds in Rajshahi, growers say the current market prices are far below production costs, leaving them unable to repay loans or recover investments.

Potato growers across northern and central districts are selling their produce at Tk 300-350 per maund (37.32 kg), compared to Tk 500-550 at the same time last year.

According to the Department of Agricul...