Bangladesh Jewellers Association (Bajus) has cut domestic gold prices, setting highest-quality 22-carat gold at BDT 232,930 per bhori (11.664 grams), after prices for locally refined tejabi gold eased.

The new rates took effect from 10 am on Saturday, Bajus said in a press release signed by Dr Dewan Aminul Islam Shahin, chairman of its Standing Committee on Pricing and Price Monitoring.

Under the revised schedule, 21-carat gold is priced at BDT 222,491 per bhori, 18-carat at BDT 191,056 and traditional-method gold at BDT 156,064.

Silver prices were lowered as well. A bhori of 22-carat silver is set at BDT 4,841, with 21-carat at BDT 4,607, 18-carat at BDT 3,966 and traditional silver at BDT 3,033.

Bajus said the rates will hold at all jewellery outlets until a further decision. Labour charges still apply according to design, and VAT is already included in the sale price of gold and silver ornaments, so customers cannot be charged it separately.

Existing Bajus rules remain in force for exchanging and purchasing ornaments, excluding specific VAT, making charges and stones.