Dhaka, Oct 14 (V7N) — Commerce Advisor Sheikh Bashiruddin has clarified that the interim government did not increase the price of edible oil, stating that any recent price hikes were made unilaterally by producers.

He made the remarks while speaking to reporters in Purbachal, Dhaka, on Tuesday (October 14) regarding the recent increase in soybean and palm oil prices.

“The price of oil will be controlled if necessary. The Directorate of Direct Commission will apply a formula to adjust prices, and all price changes should comply with this guideline,” he said.

The Commerce Advisor also criticized the Bangladesh Vegetable Oil Refiners and Bonaspati Manufacturers Association for issuing a press release about price adjustments without government approval. “Why would a press release be issued for something I did not approve?” he questioned.

Background:
On Monday (October 13), the association announced a price increase for edible oils, claiming it was done in consultation with the Ministry of Commerce and in line with international market trends.

The revised prices are as follows:

  • Bottled soybean oil (per liter): Tk 189 → Tk 195

  • Raw soybean oil: Tk 174 → Tk 177

  • Palm oil: Tk 150 → Tk 163

  • Bottled soybean oil (5 liters): Tk 945

END/SMA/AJ