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Occasional in Bangladesh

Scam in BangladeshShopping

Small tourist markups in shops in Bangladesh

Shops and markets across Bangladesh.

How it works

A seller charges a foreign visitor slightly more than a local customer. The difference is usually small. Many market prices are negotiable, and even some shops displaying fixed-price signs may bargain.

Warning signs

  • Prices are not displayed.
  • A quote is higher than prices you have checked elsewhere.

How to avoid it

  1. Compare prices before buying.
  2. Ask a local politely what they think you should pay.
  3. Bargain where prices are negotiable.
  4. Use fixed-price shops if you prefer a clear price.

If it happens to you

If you have not paid, negotiate or leave. A small price difference alone does not mean a serious scam.

  1. Move to a safe, busy place. Do not chase a thief or continue an argument that feels threatening.
  2. Call 999 for an emergency involving police, fire or an ambulance. Seek urgent medical help if you suspect drugging.
  3. Write down what happened, including the time, place, agreed price and vehicle licence plate if known. Save receipts and screenshots.
  4. Freeze missing payment cards and contact your card issuer. Secure accounts on a stolen phone when possible.
  5. Report the incident to police. Ask for a report or reference number and keep a copy.
  6. Contact your insurer and, if your passport is missing or you need consular help, your embassy or consulate.
What it can costThe tourist price difference for most items is often only a few US cents.
Where it happensShops and markets across Bangladesh.

What travellers report

Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.

More scams in BangladeshExtra money demanded on arrival: how to avoid it

Questions

What is the small tourist markups in shops scam in Bangladesh?

A seller charges a foreign visitor slightly more than a local customer. The difference is usually small. Many market prices are negotiable, and even some shops displaying fixed-price signs may bargain.

How can I spot it early?

Prices are not displayed. A quote is higher than prices you have checked elsewhere.

How do I avoid small tourist markups in shops in Bangladesh?

Compare prices before buying. Ask a local politely what they think you should pay. Bargain where prices are negotiable. Use fixed-price shops if you prefer a clear price.

What should I do if it happens to me?

If you have not paid, negotiate or leave. A small price difference alone does not mean a serious scam.

Where in Bangladesh does this happen?

Shops and markets across Bangladesh.

How much can it cost me?

The tourist price difference for most items is often only a few US cents.

How common is this scam in Bangladesh?

Occasional. Transport overcharging is a key scam risk in Bangladesh, especially in Chittagong. Other problems include small tourist markups, airport bribe demands, pickpocketing and bag theft. Most people are friendly, but take extra care with strangers' offers and late-night transport.

Who can I report it to?

Police, fire or ambulance: dial 999 from a Bangladeshi mobile phone number or landline for an emergency. Local police: report theft, threats, extortion or fraud. Provide the location, time, description and any receipts or vehicle details. Ask for a report or reference number. Khulna Metropolitan Police Control Room: the listed local number is 20220. For an emergency, use 999. Card issuer or bank: use the official app or published contact number to freeze a missing card and report unauthorised transactions. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular assistance. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and other evidence.

What number do I call in an emergency in Bangladesh?

Police, fire and ambulance: 999.

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