Supply of essentials remains stable, state minister orders display of price lists

The supply of essential commodities remains stable in local markets, while the prices of several items, including ginger, garlic and onions, have declined, according to traders.

However, consumers reported a slight increase in the price of polao rice.

The information was shared by State Minister for Textiles and Jute Md Shariful Alam while speaking to journalists after inspecting the Mohakhali and Mohammadpur Town Hall kitchen markets in the capital on Tuesday morning.

During the visits, the state minister discussed supply and marketing conditions with wholesale and retail traders. He also spoke with shoppers to gather their views on the overall price situation.

Shariful Alam said the market inspections were being conducted under the directives of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

“I visited Karwan Bazar yesterday and spoke with both traders and consumers. Today, after inspecting two more markets, I found that consumers are generally satisfied. The current government was elected by the people and will always remain attentive to public satisfaction,” he said.

The state minister noted that businesses must make a profit to remain viable, but excessive price hikes that place an undue burden on consumers would not be tolerated.

“To protect consumer interests, the government’s monitoring and intervention efforts will continue,” he added.

He said the prices of most essential commodities were currently stable. Traders informed him that market supplies were adequate and that the prices of ginger, garlic and onions had eased in recent weeks.

To ensure greater transparency in market operations, the state minister instructed all shopkeepers to display updated price lists in clearly visible locations.

Assistant Director of the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection Abdul Jabbar Mondal was present during the inspection.

Officials concerned believe that regular market monitoring and an uninterrupted supply chain will play a positive role in maintaining price stability for essential goods.