Dhaka, Nov. 8 -- Prices of essential commodities across the country increased by an average of 4.39 percent in October, driven largely by a sharp hike in fish and spice prices, according to findings by the Consumers Forum (CF).

Data compiled by the organization across various markets in Dhaka-including Karwan Bazar, Rampura, Meradia, Aftabnagar's Bhuiyan Bazar, Meena Bazar, and Shwapno super shops-showed that prices of 15 key categories of goods rose during the month.

Fish prices recorded the highest surge, jumping by an average of 11.72 percent.

Prices of spices, including cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, and cumin, rose by 10.30 percent, while onions, garlic, and ginger saw a 7.79 percent increase.

Other notable price hikes included fuel...