Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir said the government will not tolerate artificial crises or market manipulation and warned of action against offenders.
“No individual or group would be allowed to hold the market hostage in a nation of 180 million people,” said Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir.
He made the remarks while speaking to journalists after a routine review meeting on the price and supply of essential commodities at the Ministry of Commerce in the capital on Tuesday.
The minister said the global situation, particularly the Middle East conflict, has put pressure on energy and supply chains. He, however, said the government is closely monitoring developments and that import conditions remain stable.
Addressing concerns over soybean oil, he said bottled supply is somewhat low, but loose oil remains available.
He warned that authorities are monitoring reports of retailers charging above fixed rates and said action will be taken against those involved.
On inflation, he described unjustified price hikes as unacceptable and cautioned traders against using speculation to influence the market. He said any price adjustments must reflect the actual impact of rising energy costs.
The minister urged stakeholders and the business community to maintain confidence in the government’s efforts.
He said the administration is working to establish a permanent price-setting mechanism to ensure long-term market stability.
Commerce Ministry Secretary Routine Duty Md Abdur Rahim Khan and other senior officials attended the meeting.
