Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir -File photo

DHAKA,  April 21, 2026  (BSS) – Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir today issued a stern warning, stating that the government will not tolerate any form of artificial crisis or market manipulation. 

“No individual or group would be allowed to hold the market hostage in a nation of 180 million people,” he said.

The Minister today made these remarks while talking to journalists after a routine review meeting on the price and supply situation of daily necessities at the Ministry of Commerce conference room in the city.

The Minister acknowledged that the current global climate, particularly the conflict in the Middle East, has placed significant pressure on energy and supply chains. 

However, he reassured the public that the government is monitoring the situation closely and confirmed that the import status remains stable. 

Addressing concerns regarding soybean oil, the Minister noted that while the supply of bottled oil is currently somewhat low, there is sufficient supply of loose oil.

He warned that the government is actively monitoring reports of retailers charging above the fixed rates and promised that necessary actions would be taken against offenders.

Regarding inflation and price hikes, Muktadir characterized unjustified price increases as unacceptable. 

He issued a direct message to traders, stating that speculation must not be used to influence the market and that any price adjustments must strictly reflect the actual impact of rising energy costs.

The Minister urged all stakeholders and the business community to maintain trust in the government's efforts.

 He revealed that the administration is working toward establishing a permanent price-fixing mechanism to ensure long-term market stability in the future.

The meeting was attended by the Ministry of Commerce Secretary (Routine Duty) Md. Abdur Rahim Khan and other high-ranking officials.