Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir -File photo

DHAKA, June 17, 2026 (BSS) - Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir today 
said that the price and supply situation of rice in the market remains 
stable, and the government maintains a satisfactory reserve of both rice and 
wheat. 

"An on-site verification showed that there was no significant change in rice 
prices. While some traders noted a minor increase of Taka 1 to 1.5 per 
kilogram (kg) following the Eid holidays. This does not indicate a major 
price surge," he said.

The minister made these remarks at a press briefing in the Commerce 
Ministry's conference room following an inspection of the Badamtoli wholesale 
market and Nayabazar retail market in the capital. 

State Minister for Food Md Abdul Bari and Commerce Secretary Md. Ataur Rahman 
Khan were also present during the visit.

Addressing recent media reports regarding price hikes, the minister noted 
that an attempt by certain mill owners to increase prices by Taka 100 per 
sack had failed, with prices subsequently returning to previous levels. 

The minister explained that normal market fluctuations of Taka 2 to 4 occur 
based on the quality and age of the rice, noting that new harvests typically 
command lower prices.

He also assured that the supply and pricing of other essential commodities, 
including edible oil, are stable and being monitored daily by various 
agencies. 

Regarding the post-budget situation, he stated that the food market is 
currently much more stable compared to the same period in previous years.

Abdul Bari confirmed that the country's food grain supply remains normal.

He revealed that the government currently holds a reserve of approximately 20 
lakh tons of food grains, which far exceeds the required emergency stock 
levels. 

The ongoing government procurement programme is further increasing these 
reserves, and there is no reason for the public to be concerned about a 
supply crisis, he added. 

The Commerce Minister concluded by stating that the government is closely 
monitoring the market and possesses the full capability to intervene 
immediately if supply needs to be increased in the future.