State Minister for Textiles and Jute Md Shariful Alam. File photo

SANGSAD BHABAN, July 9, 2026 (BSS) - State Minister for Textiles and Jute Md. Shariful Alam today told the parliament that the government has taken effective measures to keep the prices of essential commodities at a tolerable level.

Responding on behalf of Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir while replying to a starred question from treasury bench member AKM Fazlul Haque Milon of Gazipur-5 in the Jatiya Sangsad, Md. Shariful Alam said the government has facilitated imports, rationalised duties and taxes, and explored alternative sourcing to ensure adequate supplies of key commodities, including edible oil, sugar, pulses, onions, flour and rice.

He said the government is regularly monitoring the production, import, stock, supply and prices of essential commodities across the country.

He said regular review meetings are being held with the relevant ministries, divisions, agencies and business representatives to assess the market situation and take necessary measures.

Shariful said the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection is conducting regular market inspections and drives to prevent artificial shortages, hoarding, unjustified price hikes and other unfair trade practices.

“Legal action is being taken against those found violating the law,” he added.

He also said the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) continues to sell essential commodities at subsidised prices for low-income and lower-middle-income people.

Shariful said the government is working in coordination with all stakeholders to maintain a competitive market environment and ensure an efficient supply chain.

“The market situation is being closely monitored, and prompt policy decisions are being taken whenever necessary to protect consumers from the adverse effects of price increases,” he added.