Dhaka: The price of rice is at a tolerable level due to the government’s efforts, including strict regular monitoring of the market. In a statement, the food ministry asserted that there is no shortage of food, particularly rice, in the country, and the price of this staple food item remains manageable due to continuous government oversight.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the government has already ensured a sufficient food stock to prevent any potential deficits. The ministry emphasized ongoing market monitoring to maintain rice prices and other food items at a reasonable level. To stabilize prices, the food ministry is persistently importing rice and is committed to providing rice at minimal costs to support the country’s impoverished population.
During March to April, the government plans to distribute approximately 7 lakh tonnes of rice through various initiatives, including the food-friendly program, open market sales (OMS), vulnerable group development (VGD), and the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB). The food ministry also anticipates a promising rice production during the upcoming boro season, typically starting between April and June, which could lead to a further decline in prices.
The ministry countered media reports suggesting instability in rice prices, clarifying that price fluctuations often occur after the aman season and in the middle of the boro harvest. However, this year, prices, especially for medium-quality rice like the coarse ‘Guti-Shawarna’ consumed by lower-income families, remain stable due to proactive measures by the interim government.
In markets like Kawran Bazar, coarse variety rice is priced between Taka 48-52, and fine varieties range from Taka 78-85. Similarly, in Babu Bazar, coarse rice is sold at Taka 48-54, and fine varieties at Taka 78-85, with these prices verified by the directorate of food. At Mohammadpur Krishi Market, medium quality (BRRI 28) rice was bought at Taka 57 per kg and sold at Taka 57.50, while fine quality nazir shail was bought at Taka 83.50 per kg and sold at Taka 84-85 per kg.
The release also clarified that ‘miniket’ rice reflects a processed version of coarse varieties such as BRRI-28 and BRRI-29, thus its price aligns with actual market values.