Sangsad Bhaban, Nov 15 (V7N) – Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir told Parliament on Sunday that the government is pursuing advance measures to keep essential commodity prices affordable during the upcoming holy month of Ramadan, expressing optimism that supply will be better than last year.

Replying to a supplementary question from ruling party lawmaker Nadia Pathan Papon (reserved women seat-32), the minister stated that the government expects the supply situation to improve, helping maintain a tolerable price level.

“Insha Allah, the supply of essential commodities this year will be better than last year. Based on the price levels we are observing so far, prices are expected to remain tolerable or even better than last year, provided there is no natural disaster or major change in the international situation,” Muktadir said.

The Commerce Minister also responded to a query from opposition lawmaker Shahjahan Chowdhury (Chattogram-15) regarding advance price determination and market monitoring, assuring that necessary steps would be taken to ensure adequate supplies and a stable market.

Explaining the systemic issues in the market, Muktadir pointed out that market asymmetries often prevent prices from reflecting rational conditions due to geographical imbalances between production centers and retail markets.

He acknowledged weaknesses in the country’s supply chain, noting that Bangladesh had not made sufficient efforts over the past 55 years to establish a comprehensive system for year-round availability of agricultural products at stable prices.

“If we want the same prices and an adequate supply of seasonal products throughout the year, we must redesign our supply chain accordingly,” he said.

The minister announced that the government has started considering the issue and will work jointly with the Agriculture Ministry to develop a broader supply-chain system. Praising the Agriculture Minister as a capable colleague, Muktadir expressed optimism that improved coordination between the two ministries would help stabilize prices and protect consumers' purchasing power, citing similar successful models in other countries.

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