No scope for price hike in Ramadan, says Titu

There is no room for increasing prices of any products during the month of Ramadan as there is an abundance of supply," said State Minister for Commerce Ahsanul Islam Titu on Monday, according to reports from agencies.
"Directives have been issued to the deputy commissioners to maintain discipline in the transportation system during Ramadan and to ensure smooth transportation," he said while speaking to reporters after attending the deputy commissioners' conference.
Titu also mentioned that the government will soon revise the 'Essential Commodities Act, 1956' to better suit contemporary needs.
"The list of essential commodities included in the act will also be updated," he said in response to a proposal from the deputy commissioners.
He added that authorities from the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection are currently inspecting oil refinery factories to ensure that oil prices are being displayed accurately.
The deputy commissioners have been instructed to oversee the market and ensure that products are being supplied and transported in an orderly manner, he further added.
Besides, directives were given to distribute the products to the families under food-friendly programme in a fair way, he said, adding: "The DCs have been asked to update the list of families given food under the food-friendly programme within two months after addition and change."
Mentioning that there are 7,700 dealers of Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) across the country, the state minister said the government is working to provide TCB products from a permanent shop after consultation with the public representatives within two months.
Replying to a question about the import of sugar and onion from India, Titu said "Our High Commission is working and will know the details soon." He also assured of importing onion and sugar before the month of Ramadan.