Advisor sees ‘impact’ of food-friendly programme on rice market

Ali Imam says growers still have grievances about not getting rightful payment

Food Advisor Ali Imam Majumder has claimed rice prices in Bangladesh have remained stable, crediting the government’s expanded food-friendly programme for having an “impact” on the market.

Speaking at a views exchange meeting in Chattogram on Saturday, he noted that rice prices had risen at one stage, prompting the government to expand the programme from 5 million to 5.5 million families, each receiving 30 kg of rice every month.

Previously, the scheme ran from September for five months, but now starts in August and continues for six.

“The main objective is that these people will not buy rice from the market. As a result, supply in the market increases, which affects the price. We are already seeing that impact,” said Ali.

He added that while the programme reduced pressure on the retail market, growers are still “dissatisfied”, claiming they are not getting fair prices -- an issue that also needs attention.

Asked whether syndicates were manipulating prices despite surplus rice stocks, the advisor said unauthorised hoarding could happen in two ways -- either without a licence, which is illegal, or by exceeding the licensed storage limit, which also warrants action.

He urged people to report illegal hoarding attempts, saying the authorities would take legal steps.

Ali pointed out that food expenses still account for 70 percent of consumer spending and cited erratic rainfall for the current high vegetable prices.

He also asked local officers to ensure regular market monitoring to prevent price hikes triggered by syndicates or extortion.

Ali Imam said the interim government would leave behind “sufficient” food reserves before handing over power after the general election scheduled for February.