B Mirror Report: In a strong shift toward outcome-based market management to preserve price stability, Commerce, Industries, Textiles, and Jute Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir reassured the country on Tuesday that there are enough supplies of necessities for the approaching Ramadan.
After assuming leadership of the Ministry of Commerce, the minister told reporters that the supply lines and inventory for everyday essentials are robust enough to fulfill demand from customers during Ramadan and the weeks that follow.
He presented a comprehensive overview of the existing stock and import pipeline of essential goods, stating that supplies are more than adequate to keep the market balanced. Dismissing fears of possible shortages, he urged the public not to panic. “The essential commodities we currently have in stock and in the pipeline are enough to ensure market stability throughout Ramadan and beyond. There is no reason for public concern over supply,” he said.
On the issue of market syndicates and price manipulation, the minister signaled a shift from rhetorical warnings to practical enforcement. Rather than offering verbal assurances, he pledged to demonstrate results through concrete action, stressing that his ministry would focus on measurable outcomes.
Addressing Bangladesh’s transition from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, he disclosed that work has begun on a strategy to defer graduation to better prepare the economy for the challenges ahead. He underlined the need for close coordination between the Ministry of Commerce and the Economic Relations Division to manage the process effectively.
The minister also voiced concern over the heavy concentration of exports in a narrow product range, noting that one category accounts for a quarter of the market and nearly half of export earnings. To reduce this dependency, he emphasized diversifying the export basket, exploring new global markets and supporting private sector participation in international trade.
However, he cautioned that these efforts are unfolding amid a volatile global landscape. Referring to shifts in the United States tariff regime, he said sudden policy changes have created uncertainty in international trade. For a developing country, he warned, the room for error is limited and external shocks could have significant consequences.
Highlighting the importance of a stable investment climate, the minister said both foreign and domestic investors require predictability. He described the stagnation in investment over the past two to three years as a major burden that must be addressed without delay.
In his closing remarks, Khandaker Abdul Muktadir emphasized teamwork as the foundation of his leadership approach, stating that the success of the commerce-related ministries depends on collective national effort. He called on the media and the public to act as partners in identifying shortcomings and supporting reforms as the government works to strengthen the economy.
