Dhaka, March 20 -- Jewellery sales have taken a hit this Eid as soaring gold prices make ornaments less affordable for many buyers.

The Bangladesh Jewellers Association (Bajus) recently raised gold prices to a record high, with the latest hike coming last Thursday.

A year ago, a 22-carat gold bar cost Tk 1.11 lakh, but today, its market price stands at Tk 1.55 lakh, including VAT and labour charges.

This marks an increase of Tk 44,000 per bhori in just one year-the highest price surge recorded so far.

"Many customers are visiting jewellery stores for Eid shopping, but due to the high prices, they are purchasing smaller quantities, only as much as they can afford," said Abdus Salam, owner of Chandrima Jewellers in Mouchak Market.

He n...