Dhaka, Jan 22 (V7N)— Financial Advisor Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed has stated that while the overall food situation in the country is satisfactory, this is not adequately reflected in the market. The government is focusing on market control through imports to address these issues, he said after a meeting of the Food Processing and Evaluation Committee (FPMC) at the Secretariat on Wednesday afternoon.

“The current food stock is strong,” Dr. Ahmed remarked, “but whether this is mirrored in the market is a separate matter. The government aims to ensure a regular supply and maintain a buffer stock to prevent manipulation by the private sector.”

When asked about the link between increased VAT on certain products and the financing of dearness allowances, Dr. Ahmed dismissed any direct connection, saying, “The VAT increase is not related to dearness allowance or IMF advice. Bangladesh has one of the lowest VAT rates globally. In which country can you expect such low taxes?”

He clarified that VAT has not been raised on essential items and criticized the public expectation of minimal taxes on non-essential luxuries, stating, “You pay for expensive meals and coffee, so why complain about VAT? This mindset needs to change.”

Dr. Ahmed also highlighted the challenges inherited by the interim government, mentioning a $135 million LNG bill and outstanding payments to Russia for wheat. “We have resolved these issues, which speaks to the economic mismanagement of the previous government,” he added.

The government remains committed to stabilizing the market and ensuring adequate food supply for citizens while addressing fiscal challenges.

END/MSS/AJ