Traders report adequate supply of essentials in capital

The government has stepped up market monitoring efforts to maintain price stability and safeguard consumer interests, as supplies of essential commodities remain adequate in the capital’s kitchen markets and the prices of several key items continue to decline.

State Minister for Textiles and Jute Md. Shariful Alam made the remarks on Tuesday after visiting Mohakhali and Mohammadpur Town Hall kitchen markets in the city to review the availability and pricing of daily necessities.

“The government, under the directives of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is closely monitoring markets across the country to ensure consumer satisfaction and maintain price stability,” he said.

During the inspection, the state minister held discussions with both wholesale and retail traders to assess prevailing market conditions. He also exchanged views with consumers regarding the supply and prices of essential goods.

According to traders, the market is currently receiving sufficient supplies of most daily necessities, helping ensure uninterrupted trading activities. They informed the minister that the prices of ginger, garlic and onions have fallen in recent days.

Consumers, meanwhile, reported a slight rise in the price of aromatic rice commonly used for polao. However, they noted that the prices of most other essential commodities have remained stable.

Shariful Alam stressed the need for a balance between business sustainability and consumer welfare, saying traders should earn reasonable profits but avoid imposing excessive prices that create hardship for consumers.

To improve transparency in retail markets, he instructed shop owners to display updated price lists in prominent and clearly visible places so that consumers can make informed purchasing decisions.

The state minister also reiterated the government’s commitment to continuing market inspections and taking necessary measures to protect consumer interests.

Assistant Director of the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection (DNCRP) Abdul Jabbar Mondal was present during the market visit.