Govt working to keep essentials affordable: Commerce Minister

The government has introduced a series of measures to keep prices of essential commodities stable and ensure steady supply, Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir told parliament on Sunday.

Responding to a question in the House, the minister said the Ministry of Commerce is working to maintain market balance through monitoring, policy updates and coordination with stakeholders.

He said the government is planning to revise the existing Essential Commodities law to make it more effective in controlling the market.

According to the minister, prices of edible oil are being set under government supervision and adjusted in line with global rates, with several revisions made this year. Prices of most other essential items remained stable over the past year, though onion prices saw temporary spikes before returning to normal after imports were allowed.

He also said a study has been assigned to the Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies to analyse market control systems in other countries and develop a suitable model for Bangladesh.

To support price stability, the National Board of Revenue reduced import duties on key items such as sugar, edible oil and dates, helping ease pressure on consumers.

The minister highlighted ongoing market monitoring efforts by the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection, including regular inspections in Dhaka and across districts, with increased drives during Ramadan and festivals.

He added that authorities are working closely with traders, importers and suppliers, while special task forces are monitoring warehouses, cold storage facilities and supply chains to prevent irregularities.

The government is also providing subsidised food items to around one crore low-income people through the TCB card programme to ensure affordability.

In addition, a pilot agricultural market has been launched in Sylhet to collect produce directly from farmers, which may be expanded nationwide if successful.

Officials said these combined efforts are aimed at keeping the market stable and protecting consumers from sudden price hikes.