Dhaka, Jan 22 (V7N) — The government has announced plans to import one million tons of rice and wheat to stabilise food prices in the market, according to Food Advisor Ali Imam Majumder. The decision was disclosed after a meeting of the Food Planning and Supply Committee held at the Secretariat on Wednesday.

Addressing reporters, the food advisor said, “The food situation is satisfactory, but this is not reflected in the market. To ensure a stable supply and prevent traders from exploiting the situation, we are building up food stockpiles through imports.”

He cited untimely floods that affected Aush and Aman crop yields as a key reason for the imports. While a promising Boro harvest is expected to address some of the shortfall, the government is taking proactive measures to ensure there is no shortage.

Import Details:

Rice Imports:

100,000 tons from Myanmar.

50,000 tons from Pakistan.

100,000 tons from Vietnam.

Additional rice will be sourced through international tenders, with a significant portion expected from India due to lower prices and easier transportation.

Wheat Imports:

300,000 tons of wheat, with most sourced from Russia.

Ali Imam Majumder emphasised the government’s readiness to increase import volumes if the domestic Boro collection fails to meet demand. “We aim to maintain adequate stockpiles to curb price volatility,” he said, adding that prices in the market have already shown some signs of stabilisation.

The government’s strategic decision underscores its commitment to addressing food security challenges and ensuring affordability for consumers in the face of natural disruptions and global market dynamics.

END/MSS/AJ