Chattogram Deputy Commissioner has launched a rare pre-Eid initiative to curb soaring commodity prices, offering consumers relief ahead of the festival.
The campaign, titled “Festive Sale,” aims to bring down prices of essential goods while promoting a culture of fair trade during festivals.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Mohammad Zahidul Islam Mian announced the initiative at a press conference at the Circuit House on Monday. He said festival periods in Bangladesh often see inflated prices, unlike in many other countries where discounts are standard.
“We want to move away from that culture,” he said. Zahidul Islam emphasised that artificial price hikes and hoarding are unacceptable. “Those who create artificial crises for excessive profit are not traders, but enemies of the state,” he added.
The campaign has already received a positive response from traders. Leaders from Khatunganj, Reazuddin Bazar, and Teribazar markets assured full cooperation. Discussions with supershops and retail chains have been held to implement the scheme.
Discounts of 2–5 per cent will be offered on essential commodities, including onions, ginger, garlic, flour, and edible oil. Certain products are expected to be cheaper by Tk50 to Tk800. The DC unveiled the slogan: “Prices will decrease during the festival, joy will increase.”
The programme also focused on timely salary payments. BGMEA Chattogram Director Enamul Aziz Chowdhury confirmed that 302 out of 340 factories had cleared April wages and allowances.
Bangladesh Shop Owners Association and Reazuddin Bazar Merchant Welfare Association President Alhaj Md Salamat Ali announced special spice discounts from 22 to 24 May.
Regular market monitoring will be conducted in coordination with market committees, with mobile courts deployed if necessary. “Our goal is not to create fear through strict enforcement, but to ensure a peaceful and joyful Eid for everyone,” the DC said.
The initiative positions Chattogram as one of the few districts in Bangladesh attempting to formalise festival discounts while safeguarding consumer interests and industrial compliance.
The event was attended by Additional District Magistrate Syed Mahbubul Haque, CMP Deputy Police Commissioner Md Hasan Iqbal Chowdhury, Industrial Zone-3 ASP Md Saidur Rahman, officials from NSI, DGFI, and various government departments.
Business representatives included BGMEA Chattogram Director Enamul Aziz Chowdhury, BKMEA Director Abdul Barek, Khatunganj Trade and Industries Association Executive Member SM Selim, Pran Trading Limited Operation Manager Ashiq Ullah Chowdhury, Teribazar Merchants Association President Abdul Mannan, and YPSA Head of Advocacy Md Ali Shaheen.
