Govt to use AI for smarter market monitoring

The government is set to introduce artificial intelligence (AI)-based tools and a new Power App to modernise market monitoring, improve coordination among enforcement agencies and strengthen consumer protection, Commerce Secretary Md Ataur Rahman Khan said on Sunday.

Speaking at a workshop titled 'Capacity building for team leaders engaged in market monitoring' at the Secretariat, he said the digital initiatives would make market surveillance more technology-driven, coordinated and results-oriented, helping ensure fair prices and curb market irregularities.

All the agencies involved in market monitoring are working toward a common objective, he said, adding: "The bigger challenge is not a lack of capacity, but ensuring effective coordination, mutual cooperation and prompt decision-making at the field level."

He stressed that training and motivation should translate into practical action, adding that experience-sharing and effective operational practices could make the country's market management system more dynamic and responsive.

Khan said while the Ministry of Commerce and the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection (DNCRP) lead market monitoring activities, several other ministries and government agencies also play important roles.

"In reality, market monitoring is a shared responsibility of all relevant departments and organisations. Rapid field-level response, coordinated action and accountable performance are the key strengths of the system," he said.

Referring to Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir's plan to modernise market surveillance, Khan said the ministry would soon begin developing a Power App, introduce an AI-based operational model for the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB), and further upgrade the existing market monitoring application.

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