Commerce Minister says rice prices remain stable, food grain reserves sufficient, and government ready for market intervention. Photo : ministry

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.

BSS/TRANS/KMA/KUC/SSS/1707 hrs