2024-08-19 16:40:58
Finance and trade adviser Salehuddin Ahmed said that the issue of commodity prices depends on production and supply. If the production is good, the supply will increase, the price will come down. Efforts will be made to have a supportive environment in all these related topics.
He said this in response to a question from journalists at the Secretariat of the Ministry of Finance on Sunday (August 18) at noon.
When asked what steps should be taken to keep the prices within the purchasing power of the people, the financial adviser said, if the production is good, the supply will increase and the prices will come down. It is related to trade. All these related topics will be tried to have a supportive environment. We are very vigilant about trade including imports. Our colleagues are working.
When asked what he thinks about import-dependent products, he said, “We know that we are dependent on imports.” We are wary of import inflation. We have to import essential goods as much as possible. So that there is no additional pressure on the market, consumers and common people. And there will be an effort to reduce the pressure that is there now.
The financial advisor said, we are trying to solve the problems related to trade, not only food products among the problems of common people. I will do it as soon as possible. For this, I will sit with the Ministry of Commerce and all related organizations along with the inter-ministerial meeting. Because they need your help, rest assured, we will take action as soon as possible.
When asked about the meeting with ADB, he said, “We want to, our development projects are logical among the projects of Bangladesh Bank and ADB. Also, we will assist with future projects in the pipeline if you wish. They are very positive. ADB and World Bank will help us.
When asked whether there was any talk about increasing the reserve, Salehuddin Ahmed said that the governor is there to talk about the reserve. We didn’t go too deep. They and IMF will talk to Bangladesh Bank. We will work in coordination with the Ministry of Finance and Commerce.
When asked if there was any discussion about LDC graduation, he said, it is a very big issue. There are several requirements for LDC graduation. Not only the Ministry of Finance but also NBR and others should be worked with.
When asked what the common people should do if those who work in government jobs want rationing, the financial advisor said, “For me, public and private common people are all equal.” Everyone can live a beautiful life. I discussed 5 foods that day including rice, dal, eggs. We are aware of them. I will ensure that everyone gets it equally.