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The government has allowed the import of green chillies and decided to reduce existing import duties in a bid to control soaring prices in markets across the capital.
Agriculture Minister Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid announced the decision on Sunday after inspecting the Shantinagar kitchen market in Dhaka.
The minister said immediate steps had been taken to stabilise prices and that green chilli imports would begin from Monday.
He expressed hope that prices would come down to a reasonable level within two to five days.
The market visit was joined by Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir, Food State Minister Md Abdul Bari, and Dhaka South City Corporation Administrator Md Abdus Salam.
During the inspection, the ministers spoke with buyers and sellers to assess the supply, prices and overall market situation of essential commodities, including green chillies.
Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir said the government would take all necessary measures to keep the prices of essential goods stable. He urged the media to present accurate information about market conditions to prevent confusion and discourage artificial shortages or price manipulation.
He added that the government was investigating whether any traders were hoarding goods to create artificial crises. “If anyone is found doing so, there will be no alternative but to take strict action against dishonest traders,” he said.
Earlier, a meeting was held at the Commerce Ministry to review the market situation of essential food items and agricultural products and determine necessary measures. After the meeting, the ministers visited the Shantinagar market.
Officials expressed hope that the government’s measures would improve the supply of green chillies and other essential commodities, providing relief to consumers.
