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The government has issued a stern warning against attempts to create an artificial fertilizer crisis, assuring that there is no shortage in supply and that strict action will be taken against those manipulating prices.
Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid said on Tuesday that adequate fertilizer stocks are available nationwide, with more supplies already in the pipeline. He dismissed rumors of a shortage as “completely baseless.”
However, the minister acknowledged complaints that some traders are allegedly selling fertilizer above government-fixed prices to create artificial scarcity. “Exemplary action will be taken against anyone involved in such activities,” he warned while speaking to journalists during a visit to agricultural institutions in Joydebpur, Gazipur.
Authorities are now closely monitoring fertilizer distribution and market prices to prevent irregularities. The minister stressed that there is no justification for price hikes when supply remains sufficient and called for investigations into the causes of recent price increases.
He also urged relevant departments to strengthen oversight of essential commodities, particularly agricultural inputs, to maintain market stability.
Highlighting long-term agricultural priorities, Rashid emphasized the need for research that directly benefits farmers. He noted that scientists have already developed several improved crop varieties, including flood-tolerant rice suited for vulnerable haor regions.
A newly developed flood-resistant rice variety, BRRI-118, will be distributed among farmers in affected areas next season. The variety is expected to allow earlier harvesting, helping farmers avoid crop losses from flash floods.
The minister further underscored the importance of boosting agricultural exports by improving productivity, packaging, preservation, and quality standards to meet international requirements.
