Commerce Adviser SK Bashir Uddin on Tuesday said that rice prices are expected to become more affordable within the next two weeks as Boro rice arrives in the market.
The adviser was speaking to journalists following a meeting held to review the overall situation regarding the import and supply of edible oil and other issues at the Secretariat.
“Unfortunately, rice prices have remained high for quite some time. However, Boro rice will arrive in the market within two weeks. The finer varieties of rice—particularly Najirshail and Miniket—are primarily produced during the boro season,” he said.
He also mentioned that the weather conditions remained favourable this year, while the electricity supply was stable along with adequate fertiliser availability and all these have contributed positively to agricultural production.
".....we expect a good harvest of paddy this year, which will hopefully lead to more affordable rice prices," he said.
Noting that agro-products are inherently dynamic, Bashir said. "We are closely monitoring all essential commodities and taking necessary measures where price stabilisation is needed."
When asked whether a visiting delegation from US President Donald Trump would discuss trade relations with Bangladesh, the adviser said, "That will be the only issue of significance."