Dhaka: The government has announced a comprehensive plan to bolster food security by approving significant procurements of rice, edible oil, and lentils. This initiative aims to stabilize prices and ensure a steady supply of essential commodities, particularly in anticipation of the increased demand during the holy month of Ramadan.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the approvals were granted during the 51st meeting of the Advisers Council Committee on Government Purchase, held at the Cabinet Division Conference Room at the Bangladesh Secretariat. Presided over by Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, the meeting endorsed two proposals from the Ministry of Food. These decisions include the procurement of 50,000 metric tons of non-basmati parboiled rice from India via an international open tender process, costing approximately Taka 217.53 crore. Additionally, another 50,000 metric tons of white rice will be imported from Pakistan under a government-to-government arrangement, amounting to Taka 241.52 crore.
Officials emphasized that these measures are designed to maintain sufficient public food stocks and mitigate market volatility during Ramadan, a period when the demand for essential commodities typically surges. The Directorate General of Food is tasked with implementing these procurements, ensuring timely arrival of the consignments to bolster buffer stocks.
In a related move to stabilize edible oil prices during Ramadan, the government has approved plans to procure a total of 4.75 crore liters of edible oil. This includes 1 crore liters of refined rice bran oil sourced locally and 3.75 crore liters of soybean oil obtained from international suppliers through direct purchase methods.
Officials conveyed that these procurements are crucial for maintaining an adequate supply in the domestic market, thereby preventing sharp price increases during Ramadan when edible oil consumption rises significantly. The Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) is anticipated to play a pivotal role in distributing the oil through subsidized sales nationwide.
Additionally, the meeting sanctioned the acquisition of 10,000 metric tons of lentils through a national open tender process, with an estimated cost of Taka 72.20 crore. This procurement is intended to meet the growing consumer demand during Ramadan, ensuring an ample supply while keeping prices within affordable levels. The lentils will be packaged in 50-kg bags and distributed through government channels to stabilize the market and support low and middle-income consumers.