The Bangladesh Trade and Tariff Commission has assured the public that there will be no shortage of edible oil during the upcoming Ramadan.
Following a special meeting on Sunday, the Commission confirmed that oil supplies are sufficient and will remain stable throughout the month.
DrMoinul Khan, chairman of the commission, presided over the meeting, with MdAbdur Rahim Khan, acting secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, attending as a special guest. Representatives from leading edible oil producers were also present.
The commission addressed concerns over potential oil shortages, hoarding, and informal trade.
Manufacturers confirmed an increase in supply compared to previous years.
For instance, City Group’s Adviser Amitabh Chakraborty stated that in January 2025, they supplied 50,700 tonnes of oil, including 22,242 tonnes of bottled oil – an increase from 14,262 tonnes in January 2024.
Other producers also reported similar growth, with the overall bottled soybean oil supply rising by nearly 25%.
With approximately 150,000 tonnes of edible oil in the pipeline, the supply is guaranteed to meet market demand.
The commission confirmed that any perceived shortage was due to misinformation and stated that imports have increased by 35% between December 2024 and January 2025.
Additionally, international oil prices remain stable.
Key recommendations from the meeting include preventing unfair trading practices, monitoring oil distributors to ensure fair prices, and taking strict action against hoarding or informal trade.
The commission assured that it will continue to oversee the supply chain to ensure fairness and protect consumers during Ramadan.
Bd-pratidin English/ Afia
