Highlighting the government’s efforts to keep fruit prices within the purchasing power of the general public, Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir stated that selling Malta oranges at Tk 400 to Tk 500 per kilogram is unacceptable. Speaking to reporters on Thursday (October 8) after an exchange meeting in Chattogram, the minister remarked that such high prices—even after the payment of import duties—are not justifiable.

Claiming that prices have “dropped significantly” following drives conducted by the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection and the administration, he asserted that attempts to create artificial crises or reap excessive profits—whether during Ramadan or any other occasion—would not be tolerated.

A press release from the Ministry of Commerce stated that Khandaker Muktadir emphasized that “monitoring will continue throughout the year” to maintain market stability.

Regarding the reduction of import costs to keep the prices of essential commodities at a reasonable level, he mentioned that work is underway to lower the actual duty rate on fruits—currently at 121 percent—to make them affordable for the common people. A letter has been sent to the National Board of Revenue (NBR) regarding the reduction of duties on dates.

The Commerce Minister also assured that discussions would be held with the Governor of Bangladesh Bank regarding the reduction of interest rates on bank loans for the import of consumer goods.

The exchange meeting with business leaders and importers—organized by the Chattogram Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI)—was held at the conference room of the World Trade Centre in Chattogram to ensure the supply and market stability of essential commodities.

Outlining preparations for Ramadan and the supply situation of consumer goods, Minister Muktadir stated that there is an adequate supply of essentials—including edible oil and sugar—in the “pipeline.” The process of opening Letters of Credit (LCs) for importing these goods remains normal. Efforts are being coordinated among relevant agencies to ensure uninterrupted supply throughout the year, including during Ramadan.

Business leaders at the meeting also gave assurances regarding the adequate supply of consumer goods for Ramadan. CCCI President Mohammad Amirul Haque presided over the exchange-of-views meeting.

Others who spoke included Abdus Salam, President of the Khatunganj Trade and Industries Association; former CCCI Presidents Amir Humayun Mahmud Chowdhury and Ali Ahmad; Senior Vice-President Md. Amjad Hossain Chowdhury; former Vice-President M A Salam; Chattogram Custom House Commissioner Abul Bashar Md. Shafiqur Rahman; and former Director S M Abu Taiyab.