Dhaka, Feb. 19 -- The prices of dates surged by as much as Tk 50 per kilogram in Dhaka on the first day of Ramadan, even as traders and officials say supplies remain adequate and import duties were recently reduced to stabilise the market.

Zahidi dates, a popular choice among middle, and lower-income consumers, were selling for Tk 350 per kg on Thursday, up from Tk 280-300 earlier this week.

Compared with the first day of Ramadan last year, the variety is nearly Tk 100 per kg more expensive.

Lower-priced loose or 'bosta' dates were trading at Tk 250-280 per kg, up from Tk 220-250 two days ago, according to visits to several retail markets in the capital.

Premium varieties saw even steeper price points. 'Ajwa' dates were selling for up...