Commerce, Industries, Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir has announced that the government will form a fact-finding committee to investigate the significant price differences between wholesale and retail markets.
The minister made the announcement on Sunday while speaking as the chief guest at a meeting titled “Middle East Conflict: Review of Supply and Price Situation of Consumer Goods.”
The meeting was held at the conference room of the Khatunganj Trade and Industries Association following his visit to the Khatunganj wholesale market in Chattogram to review current market conditions and commodity prices.
Khandakar Abdul Muktadir said that large and often unjustifiable gaps between wholesale and retail prices are frequently observed in the market. To identify the real causes behind these discrepancies, the Ministry of Commerce will establish a committee comprising representatives from the business community, government officials and, if necessary, experts from relevant sectors.
The committee will examine the issue in detail and submit recommendations to help address the problem.
The minister noted that Bangladesh remains heavily dependent on imports for many consumer goods. As a result, fluctuations in global commodity prices, the strengthening of the US dollar, and rising transportation costs often have a direct impact on domestic markets.
However, he stressed that the government remains vigilant to ensure that price increases do not occur due to domestic mismanagement or regulatory weaknesses.
Addressing the issue of imported fruits, Khandakar Abdul Muktadir said commonly consumed fruits such as apples, grapes and oranges should remain affordable for ordinary consumers.
He indicated that the government may consider policy measures to keep the prices of such fruits within the purchasing capacity of the public. At the same time, he noted that reducing duties on high-end luxury fruits is not necessary.
The minister also emphasised that in a free market economy, businesspeople play the leading role in driving trade and commerce, while the government’s responsibility is to maintain a supportive business environment and ensure smooth market operations.
He instructed officials to ensure that traders are not subjected to unnecessary harassment during monitoring activities.
Referring to the holy month of Ramadan, he urged traders to show consideration toward consumers, noting that the spirit of Ramadan encourages restraint and compassion.
Khandakar Abdul Muktadir also observed that the edible oil market has remained relatively stable during the current Ramadan, describing it as a positive development compared with previous years.
He thanked both wholesale and retail traders, along with other stakeholders, for helping maintain stability.
However, he expressed concern over reports that prices were being raised in some areas despite adequate supply, sometimes citing limited sales as a justification.
The meeting was chaired by Md Abdus Salam and was attended by Mahbubur Rahman and Mohammad Zahidul Islam Miah as special guests. Wholesale traders, government officials and media representatives were also present at that time.
Later, the minister held further discussions with officials of the Chattogram divisional and district administrations, as well as leaders from the local business community.
