Chattogram, Mar 15 (V7N)- Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir has said that it is the government’s responsibility to ensure an environment where the market can operate smoothly and normally.

He made the remarks on Sunday while speaking at a meeting with traders after visiting Khatunganj, one of the country’s major wholesale trading hubs.

The commerce minister said that in a free market economy, no one can be barred from importing goods. However, if there is a free flow of information in the market, traders will be able to decide whether to import more products such as pulses or temporarily halt imports.

He emphasized that the collective goal should be to keep consumer goods within the purchasing power of the people. If that can be ensured, consumers will be satisfied and all stakeholders, including businessmen, will ultimately benefit.

The minister also said that there is sufficient supply of goods in the market and warned against charging excessive prices.

 “If someone tries to charge a higher price, traders should remain aware. At the moment there is no situation that justifies such price increases,” he said.

According to him, after visiting several markets in Sylhet, Chattogram, and Dhaka, he did not observe any shortage of supply. He added that there should not be significant price variations, especially for products where the price is already printed on the packaging.

Fact-Finding Committee After Ramadan

The minister also announced that the government will form a fact-finding committee after Ramadan to investigate the unreasonable gap between wholesale and retail prices.

He said the committee will include journalists, businessmen, and administrative officials, and other professionals may be involved if necessary.

 “We will find out why the gap between the wholesale and retail markets has become unacceptable and what the real reasons behind it are,” he said.

Fuel Supply Assurance

Regarding fuel oil, the minister urged people not to panic unnecessarily.

He noted that global conflicts can sometimes create pressure on supply and prices. However, he assured that the government will take necessary steps to keep essential products within the purchasing capacity of the people of Bangladesh.

END/SMA/AJ