Rice market in BD stable, stocks sufficient

The price and supply situation of rice in the market remains stable, and the government maintains a satisfactory reserve of both rice and wheat, Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir has said.

Speaking at a press briefing at the Commerce Ministry on Tuesday after visiting the Badamtoli wholesale market and Nayabazar retail market in Dhaka, the minister said there has been no significant change in rice prices.

He noted that while some traders reported a slight increase of Tk 1 to Tk 1.5 per kilogram after the Eid holidays, it does not indicate any major price hike.

“An on-site verification showed no significant change in rice prices,” he said, adding that minor fluctuations of Tk 2 to Tk 4 are normal depending on quality and age of rice.

The minister also said an attempt by some mill owners to raise prices by Tk 100 per sack had failed, with prices later returning to previous levels. He added that supply and pricing of other essential commodities, including edible oil, remain stable and are being closely monitored by government agencies.

State Minister for Food Md Abdul Bari and Commerce Secretary Md Ataur Rahman Khan were also present during the market inspection.

Abdul Bari said the country’s food grain supply remains normal, adding that the government currently holds around 20 lakh tonnes of food grain in reserve, well above emergency requirements.

He further said the ongoing government procurement programme is helping increase reserves, and there is no reason for public concern over any supply crisis.

The Commerce Minister said the government is closely monitoring the market and is prepared to intervene immediately if required to ensure stability.