Rice market stable, stocks sufficient: Muktadir
Regarding the post-budget situation, he stated the food market is currently much more stable compared to the same period in previous years.
Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir today (17 June) said the price and supply situation of rice in the market remains stable, and the government maintains a satisfactory reserve of both rice and wheat.
"An on-site verification showed that there was no significant change in rice prices. While some traders noted a minor increase of Tk1 to 1.5 per kilogram (kg) following the Eid holidays. This does not indicate a major price surge," he said at a press briefing in the ministry's conference room following an inspection of the Badamtoli wholesale market and Nayabazar retail market in the capital.
State Minister for Food Md Abdul Bari and Commerce Secretary Md Ataur Rahman Khan were also present during the visit.
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Addressing recent media reports regarding price hikes, the minister noted that an attempt by certain mill owners to increase prices by Tk100 per sack had failed, with prices subsequently returning to previous levels.
The minister explained normal market fluctuations of Tk2 to 4 occur based on the quality and age of the rice, noting that new harvests typically command lower prices.
He also assured the supply and pricing of other essential commodities, including edible oil, are stable and being monitored daily by various agencies.
Regarding the post-budget situation, he stated the food market is currently much more stable compared to the same period in previous years.
Abdul Bari confirmed that the country's food grain supply remains normal.
He revealed the government currently holds a reserve of approximately 20 lakh tons of food grains, which far exceeds the required emergency stock levels.
The ongoing government procurement programme is further increasing these reserves, and there is no reason for the public to be concerned about a supply crisis, he added.
The commerce minister concluded by stating that the government is closely monitoring the market and possesses the full capability to intervene immediately if supply needs to be increased in the future.
