Govt working to control market despite rising fuel prices: Commerce minister
Muktadir says uninterrupted supply will help contain price pressures.
The government is working to keep the prices of essential commodities under control by strengthening supply chains and ensuring uninterrupted supplies following the recent fuel price hike, Commerce, Industries, Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir said today (26 September).
He made the remarks while responding to reporters after inaugurating the Sylhet Metropolitan Traders Association at Kushiara Convention Hall.
Asked about rising commodity prices after the fuel price increase, the minister said the government was focusing on maintaining a stable supply chain across the country to minimise the impact of higher fuel costs.
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The government increased the retail prices of diesel, octane, petrol and kerosene by Tk20 per litre on 20 September, with the revised rates coming into effect the following day.
Transport costs push up commodity prices
The fuel price increase has already been followed by higher public transport fares.
On 23 September, bus and minibus fares were raised by 17 paisa per kilometre. City bus fares increased to Tk2.70 per kilometre, while inter-district and long-distance buses and minibuses now charge Tk2.40 per kilometre.
Higher transport costs have added to price pressures in the capital's markets.
After visiting local markets on 25 September, prices of several vegetables were found to have increased by Tk10–30 per kilogram, while farm eggs crossed Tk160 per dozen.
Prices of fish and chicken have also risen, increasing the financial burden on consumers.
Muktadir said the government's efforts to maintain supply chains were aimed at preventing the fuel price increase from translating into excessive increases in the prices of essential goods.
Responding to another question, Muktadir said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's participation in around 30 programmes, including 11 bilateral meetings during his visit to the United Nations, would have a positive impact on Bangladesh's trade and investment prospects.
"When the prime minister speaks at the country's highest forum, it leaves a far-reaching positive effect," he said.
The minister also said the Sylhet-Dhaka six-lane highway would be fully ready for traffic by the middle of 2029.
