Reaffirming the government’s commitment to fix the economy, Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus on Monday called for collective efforts to keep essential commodity prices stable during the upcoming Ramadan, reports UNB.
“We seek everyone's cooperation to ensure that prices remain manageable. We have already talked to businesspeople, and they have assured us that there will be no short supply (of commodities) in the market. If anyone tries to create an artificial crisis for excessive profit, we will take strict action against them,” he said in a televised speech to the nation in the morning.
Dr Yunus highlighted ongoing initiatives to curb market syndicates, including plans to establish alternative agricultural markets.
The Chief Adviser said, “Over the past few months, the prices of certain goods have gone up. We are working to reduce prices by increasing supply, offering duty exemptions on imports, curbing middlemen's interference and enhancing market monitoring.”
Acknowledging the persistence of extortion in the transport sector, Dr Yunus said, “We have not yet been able to completely stop extortion in transportation. If this issue is resolved, we hope prices will fall further.”
Dr Yunus also focused on the economic challenges inherited from the previous “fascist regime,” saying that the interim government is working to rebuild a devastated economy and stabilise forex reserves.
“In November 2024, export earnings rose to $4.12 billion, a 15.63% increase from the previous month. During the July-November period of 2024, total exports reached $16.11 billion, compared to $14.34 billion during the same period last year, reflecting a 12.34% year-on-year growth. Meanwhile, foreign exchange reserves have climbed to $19 billion,” he mentioned.
The Chief Adviser went on to say, “These indicators show that our economy is beginning to recover and conditions are improving.”
Prof Yunus acknowledged that inflation remains a pressing challenge and said, “The government is working sincerely to control inflation. Although we have not yet achieved the desired success, I am confident that inflation will soon come down.”
Bd-pratidin English/Tanvir Raihan
