Dhaka, Jan 25 (V7N) — Commerce Advisor Sheikh Bashir Uddin on Sunday said that imports of daily necessities have increased by 40 percent compared to last year, raising hopes that prices will remain within the reach of consumers during the upcoming month of Ramadan.

He made the remarks after a task force meeting held to review the prices and overall market situation of essential commodities ahead of Ramadan.

The Commerce Advisor said that traders have assured the government that the supply of daily necessities is normal, and no artificial shortage is expected. “Prices will remain under control during Ramadan. Rather than increasing, the prices of some products may decrease further,” he said.

He noted that the government is facing economic pressure due to liabilities from large infrastructure projects, including the Karnaphuli Tunnel, Payra Port and Padma Bridge, along with the devaluation of the national currency. In addition, significant borrowing from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has also affected the overall market situation.

Sheikh Bashir Uddin said that around 500,000 tonnes of rice bran oil have already been released into the market, helping to stabilize the edible oil sector.

“If the current supply situation continues, prices of essential goods are expected to decline further during Ramadan,” he added.

END/SMA/AJ