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Commerce Minister Khandker Abdus Muktadir has stated that there is no scope to increase the prices of daily essential commodities using the increase in fuel oil prices as an excuse. He said the government would keep a strict watch on market conditions, and action would be taken against anyone attempting to destabilize the market.
He made these remarks while speaking to journalists after inspecting the Sylhet District Council Natural Park on Friday.
The Commerce Minister said, “Increasing the prices of daily essential goods due to fuel price hikes is unacceptable. The government has the opportunity to supervise this matter, and market conditions will be regularly monitored.”
He further stated that the inflation caused by the increase in fuel oil prices is temporary. He emphasized the importance of increasing the capacity of the country’s ports to reduce commodity transportation costs. The Minister said, “Unless port capacity is increased, it will not be possible to reduce supply costs.”
During this time, the Commerce Minister also discussed the trade agreement with the United States. He informed that if any clause in the agreement goes against the country’s interests during its implementation, there is a provision within the agreement itself to modify it.