Government Has Adequate Stocks to Ensure Market Stability During Ramadan: Commerce Minister

Commerce, Industries, and Textiles and Jute Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir has said the government holds sufficient food stocks to keep the market stable during the holy month of Ramadan.

Speaking to reporters on Friday morning after exchanging greetings with government officials and party leaders at Osmani International Airport, the minister stressed that maintaining stable prices of essential commodities is a top priority for the Ministry of Commerce.

“The ministry’s primary responsibility is to keep prices of essential food items stable, and this becomes even more crucial during Ramadan. Although we assumed office shortly before the month and had limited time to take special initiatives, the good news is that our current food reserves are adequate to ensure price stability,” he said.

Responding to questions about development plans for Sylhet, he said his commitments to the region were clearly outlined during the election campaign and in the party manifesto. He noted that the government would prioritise initiatives aimed at improving quality of life, including job creation, expansion of IT-related professions, and the establishment of an artificial intelligence (AI) centre.

Highlighting the importance of technological advancement, the minister observed that neighbouring countries have already launched major digital programmes and AI training for government officials.

“If we lag behind, the world will look at us with sympathy. We must strengthen our capacity to compete globally,” he said, adding that the government is determined to make full use of the next five years to enhance Bangladesh’s global standing.

On employment prospects at Sylhet’s IT park, he underscored that investment is key to job creation. Improving communication infrastructure, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and ensuring political stability, he said, are essential to attracting investors.

He added that both expatriate and local investors interested in Sylhet would receive special policy support, expressing optimism that visible progress would be achieved soon.

Senior officials, local administrators, and leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and its affiliated bodies were present during the visit.