Dhaka, September 01 — Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, the Finance and Trade Adviser, addressed concerns regarding market prices and the poultry sector during a meeting with stakeholders at the Ministry of Commerce on Sunday. 

Speaking to the media, Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed remarked that the current prices of goods in the market are "not at all disappointing" and that efforts are underway to make the market conditions more favourable for the public. He highlighted that there are multiple factors, beyond production costs, influencing the prices of daily commodities. He noted, “If the price of anything increases in Bangladesh, it does not decrease easily; it takes time.”

During the meeting, the adviser discussed existing issues and potential solutions for egg and meat producers. He emphasised the need to narrow the price gap between producers and retailers, stating, “There will not be a huge price gap from the producer to the retail stage.” Dr. Ahmed acknowledged some challenges within the trade and commerce sectors and stressed the importance of resolving these issues.

Addressing the concern over the high price of golden chicken, which is being sold at 240 taka in Dhaka despite a producer price of 185 taka, the adviser mentioned that the Directorate of Agricultural Marketing will now regularly determine a rational price for products. Furthermore, he assured that the Consumer Rights and Competition Commission would actively monitor the market to prevent price exploitation. 

He also noted that producers have committed to increasing production and acknowledged some mismanagement in the marketing process. 

Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed highlighted that the recent reduction in fuel oil prices should translate into lower transportation and other costs, urging businesses to reflect these changes in their product pricing. “If the price of goods in Bangladesh increases once and does not decrease, it will not work,” he cautioned.

In response to questions about controlling syndicates in the egg and poultry sector, the adviser stated that while individuals might attempt to sell at higher prices, the formation of price-fixing cartels would not be tolerated. He reassured that the price of eggs is expected to decrease further due to the reduced fuel costs, which will lower transportation expenses.

The meeting was attended by key officials, including Commerce Secretary Moha. Salim Uddin, Fisheries and Livestock Secretary Syed Mahmud Belal Haider, Chairman of the Bangladesh Competition Commission Pradeep Ranjan Chakraborty, Chairman of the Bangladesh Trade and Tariff Commission Dr. Mainul Khan, Director General of the National Consumer Rights Protection Directorate H. M. Safikuzzaman, Director General of the Directorate of Livestock Rayazul Haque, and prominent businessmen from the country's poultry sector. 

These discussions reflect the government's commitment to stabilizing market prices and addressing sector-specific challenges, ensuring a fair and competitive market environment.