Govt sets minimum potato price at Tk 22 per kg

The government has set a minimum price of Tk 22 per kilogram for potatoes at cold storage gates and announced plans to procure 50,000 metric tons for storage and controlled release, officials said on Wednesday.

The decision comes amid rising concerns that current market prices are falling below production costs, pushing farmers into financial losses.

A four-member review committee has been formed following directives from the Chief Adviser, with the Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture serving as chairperson. The Secretaries of the Ministries of Commerce, Food, and Finance are serving as members.

The committee has been tasked with devising strategies to ensure fair farmgate pricing and protect farmers’ interests, particularly during the upcoming production season.

Minimum Price: Potatoes at cold storage gates must not be sold below Tk 22 per kg.

Government Procurement: The government will purchase 50,000 metric tons of potatoes for storage and later sale during October–November 2025 to stabilize the market.

Farmer Incentives: Support and incentives will be extended to potato farmers ahead of the next cultivation season.

All relevant ministries have been directed to take immediate action to implement the measures.

The move comes as vegetable prices continue to soar in Dhaka’s kitchen markets, with no common item reportedly selling below Tk 80 per kg, further pressuring household budgets.